I practiced on a G2 sim until my hands were sore and then used a good friend who is a certified instructor and a cord for the first several flights.

I actually found it easier than what everybody told me it would be. My instructor took my plane off the first time and then turned it over to me. I flew it for few minutes and than landed it the very first flight. My instructor couldn't believe it. But, to me, it felt just like the sim. I'm 50 so it's not like I had a bunch of video game experience either. I flew for another 4 or 5 flights with my instructor and then he turned me loose. I did fine.

However, where I've had problems is with the 3D training. There is nobody around our area that will teach that stuff. So I've read everything I could get my hands on and I've tried every stunt in the book.

Bottom line...I've been flying 2 years and 3 months. I've crashed 9 planes that were unrepairable and crashed two more times where I was able to repair the plane. None of my crashes were with my 2nd plane or even my 3rd. It's the 3D stuff that kills me. But now I'm better (more conservative) with that. I love to take risks with my planes though. And I'm not afraid to crash. Too me it's part of the hobby. Gives me something to talk about.

It's been a fun, rocky road for me. But I can fly better than almost anyone in our club. And I invented the "Inverted Flat Spin Landing". It's a maneuver that is very impressive but you only do once for each plane.

Anyways, I vote for instructors but be sure you challenge yourself and don't stay on the buddy box too long.

Thanks
Barry

PS: Who is Mr. Akimoto? Seems, forward, almost rude.

PSS: Ice Man...is that you? Like your new picture. Didn't scare me.