When I started to fly RC models, (after flying rubber band and control line models) I knew I had some knowledge to start with, I went with a friend of mine to the local field, there were not RCU nor either computerized radios, but there was a great guy as an instructor and owner of the field, he taught me how to fly RC models on mode 1 (that was used by then) I asked many questions, I flew with a buddy box many times and I learned a lot from him, not only flying techniques but some behavior on the field and a lot of attitude to help others on basic things that I could handle (I never crashed my trainer which was built by my friend's father). A few years later I moved and started again from the beginning (now on mode 2), this time there were ARF trainers and computerized radios, however I went with a 6 channel radio and a Royal ARF trainer, I was also lucky and found a great instructor and friend, I flew a lot but after a couple years I decided to quit because of marriage and job. Meanwhile, even that I did not go to the field I was acquiring some stuff, like my wood box, electric starter and some kits that I built. Among those kits that I built there was a Tower trainer which I still have and I hope to share it with my kids. As you can see, I like to start from the basics, every time, using a trainer which is the best way to get the feeling, now I can fly aerobatics and scale planes, but if I would need to get out from the hobby and come back later again I would start with my trainer and my computerized radio which I already have. None of my initial planes were ready to fly, they all required building or assembling (great way to learn) the cost was acceptable, no fancy planes but just what I needed to have plenty of fun. I believe that I will be into the hobby for all my life, maybe not flying all seasons but I will be building and checking RCU all the time I can.