RE: Need Advice for Trainer
If you are a builder, you can build a senior telemaster. It doesn't come in arf form, but it is huge, light, and will take you well beyond the trainer stage later on. Hobbico and Tower both have several inexpensive arfs, any of the new arfs will be great. I don't think there is a bad .60 sized trainer out there. You may want to opt for a semi-semitrical, rather than a flat bottomed wing, so you don't get bored too quickly with your trainer. The semi wings are more aerobatic for later on. Definitely find a qualified instructor in your area and get some lessons. Teaching yourself is usually expensive, frustrating and expensive. Good luck!