Complaints about fitness clubs received by the Better Business Bureau have increased more than 90 percent in the last five years.

According to a new analysis conducted by the Better Business Bureau, the most common complaints regard contract disputes (41.5 percent) and billing issues (31.7 percent). The Better Business Bureau has also seen a rise in complaints about fitness centers that sold memberships, only to go out of business a few weeks later (15.1 percent).

The Better Business Bureau offers the following advice to help you select a fitness facility that best meets your needs:

- Check with the Better Business Bureau first. Go to bbb.org to find a list of fitness clubs accredited by the Better Business Bureau and to find out their business track records.

- Determine your fitness goals. What are your fitness goals and how will you accomplish them? This will help you select an appropriate facility for you.

- Consider your budget. Most facilities charge an upfront membership fee to join and a monthly fee thereafter. Know what you can afford.

- Check out the facilities. Visit several different clubs on days and at times that you plan to exercise to see how crowded they are. Do the facilities offer the equipment, classes, amenities and hours of operation you require? Note the cleanliness and condition of the equipment, workout area and locker room, as well as staff member availability.

- Ask around. Check with friends and family for recommendations. And when visiting fitness clubs, ask members about their experiences n are they satisfied?

- Don't give in to pressure. Walk away from clubs that pressure you to sign a contract on the spot. Take a sample contract home to read it thoroughly.

- Know the membership details. How long is the membership term and is there an automatic renewal? Can you go month-to-month? Some facilities give customers several days to reconsider after signing the contract; if so, get it in writing. What are your cancellation rights if you move to another area, are injured, or the club closes or is taken over by new management? Will the unused portion of your membership be refunded, and if so, how and when? These details should all be in the contract.