Welcome to RCU Cootie!

Dennis, I believe the expression is "A nose heavy plane won't fly well, and a tail heavy plane won't fly long."

Anyway, for a trainer, Mark the location of the CG under the wing as Bubbagates suggested, then simply put one finger on each mark and lift the plane up. It should sit level, or SLIGHTY nose down.

But remember, this is a starting point. Now fly the plane. If it's good, leave it alone. If it's sluggish or tends to land fast, try shifting some weight back. If it's a bit too sensitive to elevator controls, you could lessen the elevator throw, or shift weight forward.

It's basically a balancing act. Once it is set to the recommended CG, that means it's safe to fly. Now it's up to you to make it fly the way YOU want it to.