hey ksu
I’m also fairly new to PE also. Having pumped off and on (read infrequently) for a year or so with no permanent gains, I also was skeptical about permanent PE.
I can tell you that in 6 weeks I’ve added 11mm (0.44 inch) to my BPEL, which I am delighted about, especially because I have started at a really low level of intensity and will work my way up.
One thing I learned from years of lifting weights, and having to “retire” through various injuries, is that to create a specific adaptation through imposed demands (SAID Principal) you must continually add stress to the relevant body part, and you must do it gradually to avoid injury.
In PE, this would relate to 1) time, and 2) intensity. In order to continue to add these stresses, it make sense to me to start low, increase with time, and change/add components to your workout when you reach a plateau. Keeping regular record will tell me early when I plateau.
Sorry to add my rambling to wishes of good luck, just wanted you to know that it does work!