Can you have "dual" certificates-a PPL and Rec at the same time? Why not acquire a rec certificate while you are healthy and have your PPL.
Since the Private is a higher rating you can exercise the privileges of both. In other words if you had a Rec then got your Private you would still have one certificate -- the Private.
I agree with John. The Private has more privileges than the Rec and only requires slightly more training. If you have the desire and discipline I would go for the Private over the Rec or the LSP since it offers far more options later. It takes a little more training but essentially gives you all three certificates with one check ride.
