Anyone who has driven out of the grid via 16th street has probably noticed a large red brick building lined by cypress trees with a neon sign hanging from the corner. This building is the home of Pipeworks, a fitness center and climbing gym.

Pipeworks is a part of Touchstone Climbing & Fitness, which runs four other gyms in the Bay Area. Touchstone was founded by Mark and Deborah Melvin in 1995 with the opening of Mission Cliffs in San Francisco, setting a standard for future indoor climbing facilities.

Pipeworks opened in Sacramento six years later and continued to set standards by offering full fitness facilities as well as world-class climbing. Upon entering, one might be overwhelmed by the immense 40-foot climbing walls that greet him/her.

But after a short walk around, it becomes obvious that there is something for everyone -- from hardcore climbers to cardio kick-boxers. Yoga lovers are treated to multiple classes per day, six days per week.

All of this is included in the monthly membership fee, as is membership to all Touchstone facilities.

Most members would agree that there is a different social atmosphere in Pipeworks than can be found in any typical corporate gym. I asked the general manager, Vaughn Medford, about this and he agreed, citing the "Golden Rule" as a major contributor.  He and his employees treat the gym's visitors just as they would like to be treated.

He explained that there is a personal connection between Pipeworks and its members that doesn't exist at other gyms. There are no forced contracts and they are flexible with members who might have missed a deadline for cancellation, etc.

Member feedback is accepted and sincerely considered. As Vaughn said, "This isn't my gym as much as it is for the people who come here."

This respectful interaction leaks down to the members themselves. The "creepy gym vibe" does not exist at Pipeworks.  Certainly every woman who has ever felt the silent stare while working

People respect others' intentions of simply working out or climbing, and conversation remains on the friendly level. People are approachable and encouraging, which definitely helps with new climbers who might feel intimidated by the more experienced.

Pipeworks' focus on the "Golden Rule" extends beyond its property line. Support of the surrounding community is an important aspect of the gym's management. Vaughn explained, "Being involved in our community is one of the four corners of our mission statement."

The gym works with WIND Youth Services (www.windyouth.org) and Mustard Seed School (run by Loaves and Fishes), both programs for homeless and at risk children, inviting them to climb on a regular basis.

The cycling club at Pipeworks collected 30 bikes which were donated to Quinn Cottages, a transitional housing community located across the street from the gym's parking lot. Discounted memberships are also offered to Quinn Cottages and other special groups.

Also important to Pipeworks is the local climbing community. Touchstone works to strengthen this community through competitions which are hosted by each of the five locations. These competitions are free to members and represent a great chance to meet fellow climbers. Free pizza and beer and gear giveaways typically cap the night of a competition.

Pipeworks also hosts meetings of a local climbing advocacy group, CRAGS. CRAGS works to protect nearby climbing sites as well as expand access for climbers in closed locations.

So, next time you pass that large, red brick building, think about stepping inside and asking for a tour. The staff is friendly and eager to answer any questions that you might have. As added incentive, new members can sign up with no initiation fee through the end of January -- a savings of $100. Check it out.