I think it depends on the individual. Some people need a high-wing, easy trainer and some people can naturally fly a jet inverted out of the gate. Flight mechanics, orientation, and hand-eye coordination are very individually-differentiated skills and some people pick it up faster than others, so I wouldn't put a hard limit on what you start with. You know your own skills best.

My recommendation to you for your first trainer plane is ... a simulator. No joke, learn to fly on the computer without having to worry about repairs. You can teach yourself, or use the tutorials, or engage a real-live instructor after that if you think you would benefit. I use the FS One simulator and love it. : ) You can also download lighter but free simulators as well.

- K