Funky Buddha Yoga Hothouse: Bringing the Funk to Uptown
Photo by Glerum Photography
Grand Rapids may be home to craft beer, local food and talented artisans, but we're also home to some killer boutique workout studios—like Funky Buddha Yoga Hothouse. Funky Buddha takes hot yoga to a whole new level, with a variety of classes, special events, live musical guests and more. This is not your mama's yoga studio! Get ready to move, sweat, breathe, and find a new passion for working out in a 95-degree studio in Eastown. Check out their schedule to get started on your journey as a yogi!
Quick Facts
- Chris and Kerri Reinbold opened Funky Buddha in 2010
- Three locations: Eastown, Forest Hills and Holland
- Built with a sustainable focus, including cork floors and a fresh-air exchange system
- Offering over 100 classes weekly


Interview with Chris Reinbold:
Q: What is your first priority as a business owner in Uptown?
A: Continuing to strengthen our culture for our employees and infrastructure, focusing on the quality of our services and maintaining the atmosphere that resonates with thousands of our members. We're now deepening our roots in the community by partnering with local workout studios, musicians, and artists.
Q: What are the major differences between the area now and when you first moved in?
A: When we opened, we were coming out of the recession, and Eastown was struggling. We were the first high-profile business to open once the recession hit. Today, Eastown and the entire Uptown area is thriving. It's an awesome feeling to be part of the revitalization of the neighborhood.
Q: Why did you choose to open Funky Buddha in Uptown?
A: We chose it for the location. With Lake Dr. connecting downtown and East Grand Rapids, we are highly accessible. The Uptown and specifically Eastown neighborhood fit with our vision.
Q: What do you envision for the future of Uptown?
A: I see more prosperity, continued growth and evolution. A lot of the growth that's already been made is because of the local, small businesses, entrepreneurs and creatives who thought, "Wouldn't it be cool if..." and then pursued their vision.