Everyone says get a Slow Stick, but I think a lot of learning could be done with a 3D foamy.
With low throws and throttle control and balanced for stability they fly very well.
They fly slowly. I fly mine with a 2s lipo pack and that keeps it tamed.
The only thing different from a trainer is that
there is no built in stability, no dihedral in the wing.
This means if you give right aileron, you have to give left to bring it back level, otherwise it just stays in the bank you put it in.
If you keep holding the ailerion stick it will just keep rolling.
Put it in a bank then put the stick in the center, then move it in the opposite direction to level the plane.
With practice it gets easy.
They are pretty tough too. Usually repairs can easily be made to foam.
I love the Foamy Factory planes. The 3DX and Ultimate Bipe plans are even free. Start with the 3DX.
If things don't work out with a 3D, then you can move your equipment to a more forgiving trainer.
So I'd say give it a try.
Let me know how it works out. If I can help let me know.