help with aero bars

it does get better.  I went to an elementary school parking lot on the weekend and spent about 2 miles doing some drills -- drills like i learned to ride a motorcycle on.  Figure 8's, turns in all directions, shifting, getting into and out of aero position, cornering, coming out of corners and accelerating. 

Also maybe a trainer would help just to get used to being in the aero position.

Good luck and keep at it.

Don't worry... you will find the balance over the next few weeks of riding. Before you know it, it will feel like second nature.

thank you thankyou thankyou, i was starting to think it was just me, i have my bike on my trainer now when girls take there nap i will get on and ride for a while then when hubby is back i'll get out and practice.Sarah

you will definitely get better over time.  i had a really tough time mentally getting used to using the aero bars because when i first attempted i had a really bad crash (totally my fault (not enough time on the bike and totally not comfortable w/ basic handeling) but still).  i had some friends give me some really helpful advice:

1. make sure you are comfortable on the bike prior to trying to go aero
2. once you are comfortable being able to shift (if your shifters are incorporated into the bars)
3. practice sitting in the aero position on the trainer, your body will get used to being in the new position without you having to worry about the balance part (as much).
4. practice going one arm in/ one arm out while riding outside.  this really helped me because i could still have one arm on the brakes if i needed it while still working on the movement into the aero bars.  this also helped me build into going down hills in the aero position.
5.  when and only when you feel comfortable (and trust me, you will know) go down into the full aero postion.  when i got to this step i waited to where i had long stretchs of road/trail so that i didn't have to quickly get out of my aero bars.

good luck!  you will be aero in no time!