My recommendation...
Begin in a 108 hp Citabria (if available)
the low powered aircraft will teach you more about proper control input)
Move up to a fixed pitch 150 hp Decathlon
this gives you a symetrical wing (heavier control inputs) and a little
more hp to work with.
Next step is the 180 hp, constant speed prop, Super Decathlon
this aircraft will take you up through Intermediate and some of the
Advanced competion maneuvers.
After you have mastered the Super Decathlon, you will have sufficient
experience to handle most of the high performance acro mounts.