tomtom,
In my view the biggest single thing that helps first timers control an aeroplane is to have a very light touch on the controls when learning to fly straight and level and do some gentle turns. Ideally, you should hold the controls with one hand, using finger tips and thumb only.
In a 172 you may need a bit more muscle when you get to t/o and landing but, by the time you get to learning those, you will have grasped the idea of straight & level and gentle turns.
Too many beginners tend to grip the controls too tightly and this actually makes it more difficult.
Have a great flight.