I would suggest getting a 4 channel trainer. If you start out with 3 channels then you will probably need to be retrained when you go to 4 channels. 4 channel planes don't require as much dihedral in the wings in order to make the plane turn and are therefore easier to fly if it gets windy. I prefer the trainers with the balsa sides with plywood reinforcing. I have watched them crash into a fence with litttle damage and were easy to repair. Other than that most of the 4 channel trainers out now work well. I suggest starting out with a kit over an arf. You really learn how a plane is built when you glue all the pieces together yourself. It also removes the fear of repairing a plane if it lands too hard or hits something. [8D]