NASM only has that requirement for the PES if you don't already hold the NASM CPT. Once you have the NASM CPT, which wasn't too tough to get, then you are eligible for the PES and CES. But if you go for the PES without the CPT your degree does have to be in a related field. From the website:
PES (CES, too) candidates must have:
- A current NASM-CPT certification, or
- REPs Level 3 or higher credential (candidates outside of the US only), or
- 4-year collegiate degree in related field
I never really understood why you could have any bachelors for the CSCS. Although, it works out in my favor since I have my BS and not in a related field, but it never really made sense except to just make sure those who hold it have a more thorough general education and are more well rounded overall. Anyway, you've got your associates, you are only a couple of years away from your bachelors. And it is true that an associates degree isn't worth much, and bachelor's is pretty much considered minimum level education for a lot of professions. I didn't even bother picking up my AS on the way to my BS because it seemed like a waste of time.