The trainer will definitley give you a "leg up." I have the Great Planes G2 trainer and I find that it is easier and also harder than the real thing. It's easier in the fact that the planes fly perfectly but it's harder in that you tend to lose your reference with the ground if you fly to high. The trainer will allow you to get certified much more quickly and possibly more cheaply then without it.

Good luck. Before you know it you'll be looking for a faster and more aerobatic plane.