If you choose a name brand .40 size trainer, a decent .45 size engine, and a basic 4 channel radio or perhaps a 6 channel computer radio, you'll be off to a good start. I frequently suggest the Tower Trainer, Futaba 4YF, and a .45 from OS, Thunder Tiger, Super Tiger, or other well known company. However, as has been suggested, the best first step is to take a visit to a local club. You can find clubs by asking at your local hobby shop, or the AMA club locator: http://www.modelaircraft.org/clubsearch.aspx .