I agree a instructor is best if you have access to one and can afford the club and AMA membership. If you don't have access to an instructor, get a simulator. You can fly and crash to your heart's content. As far as tearing up your first plane, my J-3 Cub is still in perfect condition with one prop change. I believe the Hobbyzone Super Cub LP would be the perfect first plane for anybody and it will stand up to rough landings also. Attached is my J-3 and some of it's hanger mates. The J-3 is in the back.