Hi all, I am new to the forums. Thank you in advance for any answers. A little background, I have a Finance degree and am currently attempting a career change to personal training. I am 28 and was certified by ISSA 1.5 years ago but I am realizing that I might need a "better" cert distinction. I've read a lot and it seems 99% of places accept ACSM. I have only applied to one gym so far and did not receive a call back. I hope to apply to more soon, if I start studying for ACSM and put that on my resume.

My questions are:

I plan to buy the 3 recommended books off LWW for 20% off for $115. I think this is a pretty good deal. Is there anything additional (or less) I need (don't need) since I am already ISSA certified and have a basic knowledge of personal training, and have trained a couple friends here and there?

Should I become a member of ACSM to get $60 off the exam and all the benefits?

Lastly, do I really need to goto the workshops as long as I study the books and since I have a background through ISSA?

Any other thoughts on what I should do to help my career change to personal training happen would be much appreciated!

Thanks!