I started out back in the early 2000s with fly bar helicopters nitro and electric, batteries were not too good back then. Although saying that, Turnigy ones are still in use today. Had limited success as training in the UK was not all that advanced. Tried foamy trainers with no success, for some reason I just couldn't fly planes. Flew helis for 8 years until I moved to USA then took time out for a few years, just doing multirotor filming of pickleball events.
I eventually moved to Florida and joined CSMS, and that's where the plane addition started. I met a now good friend who pushed me to move from foams and my balsa meridian hanger 9, 10cc up to an 85" Extreme flight MXS. What a scary transition! So big! What I didn't realize was that bigger is sooo much easier to fly and land, less twitchy and once you forget the value invested it was fabulous. I wasted so much money on small planes with issues from wind, poor build quality, etc.
Since my transition to larger planes, I've had no major incidents and actually saved a fortune. Now my flying isn't and never was EXPERT level, I'm a mild flyer who does patterns around the field and now throws in a few 3D attempts! I can whole heartedly say "go bigger." You take less planes to the field and have more fun focusing on one or two. Don't try to be the best at the field just have fun, don't be pushed to do tricks, but push your comfort zone from repetitive flying until you get it mastered. Most clubs welcome all levels so don't be intimidated by the few wannabe experts and know-it-alls with all the lingo. Mingle with the supportive types and when flying just concentrate on you.
Now many years later I've had 85", 105", STOL planes, and 60" crazy battery Egde 540s. Buy quality once and I can say you will benefit. Moving into planes was the best for me. I can now travel anywhere and enjoy the company of friends and soon to be friends. Don't be intimidated, fly your small trainer with pride, they are still the best.
Happy flying.
