[Lisa~]

I was already ACE certified (I know, don't laugh) and training clients when I took my CSCS exam. So, I don't know what to tell you except maybe to ask the gyms where you might want to work which certifications they will honor. I think there are several paths to the same destination. I also think any gym would hire you if you had your CSCS or your CPT. You'll have to learn more about fitness assessments and special populations on your own than the CPT is going to teach you anyway. No matter which cert you get, you still have to continue learning and adding to your skills.