Jon Bluming (Johannes Cornelius Bluming, 1933–2018) was a prominent Dutch martial artist, instructor and film actor. He gained international recognition for his expertise in multiple disciplines and for training elite competitors. Bluming held senior grades in several arts and was widely respected within European martial communities for his technical knowledge and for helping to popularize full‑contact karate styles in the Netherlands.
Ranks and disciplines
Across his career Bluming earned top honors in different systems, reflecting a cross‑disciplinary approach to combat training. His officially reported ranks included:
- 9th dan in judo
- 10th dan in Kyokushin Karate
- 10th dan in Hapkido
These high grades denote both technical mastery and long service as an instructor. Bluming combined throwing, striking and joint‑control methods drawn from these arts in his teaching.
Career and influence
Born in Amsterdam, Bluming began training in the postwar era and later established himself as a coach and dojo head. He worked with top competitors and is particularly known for coaching Willem Ruska, who became a two‑time Olympic champion in judo. Bluming also appeared in Dutch films and television, bringing a martial arts presence to popular culture and helping to broaden public interest.
Teaching, style and legacy
Bluming emphasized practical, full‑contact training and cross‑training between grappling and striking arts. His pupils included competitive judoka and karateka who went on to national and international success. He is credited by many students and peers for professionalizing instruction and for introducing aspects of Kyokushin training methods to the Netherlands.
Notable facts
- Coach to Olympic champion Willem Ruska.
- One of the better‑known European martial artists to hold high dan grades across multiple systems.
- Active as an instructor and public figure for several decades until his death in De Bilt in December 2018.
Bluming's career illustrates the mid‑20th century growth of martial arts in Europe: a blending of styles, the rise of full‑contact karate, and the emergence of professional coaching for international sport. His work left a lasting mark on Dutch martial arts culture and on the students he trained.