Power flying will require more attention to aircraft management. Engine
management, radio/VOR management, etc.

Soaring first will eliminate the "management" aspect and let you focus
on perhaps the most important thing which is flying skills.

Without looking at accident statistics and then back tracking to find
whether a pilot was "glider then power" or "power then glider", I don't
think you can say one way is better than the other.

My personal opinion would be to start with soaring first, then
transition to power. You will get to learn formation flying (with the
added bonus of having a rope tied between you). Learning how to land
when you only have one shot at it will force you to excel at energy
management. Rope break training at 200' might come in handy if you ever
lose power on departure later in power flying.

Once you master the flying part, if you're drawn to power flying, then
add the other aircraft management items into the mix and enjoy.

wrote:
Hi all, I decided to take the plunge (no pun intended) and start
flying. I thought about going straight for a private glider license.
But, I do have the option of going for the powered pilot license first
- then the glider license second. Any thoughts? How many here have
both? Did you get your powered pilot license first?

cheers, Victor