Hey everybody!

I am based in Atlanta, and i am thinking of switching to UA.
Main reasons are:

1. Travel a lot to Europe
2. Prefer the Gold Star Alliance than Delta's status programs

First question

1. I read that in orderto qualify for premier miles, i have to travel 4 paid flights. What does this mean? That the first 4 flights don't count on the miles or that in order to maintain status i have to travel 4 flights every year?

2. LH vs UA ff programs? Which one is better?

Thanks!!!