You could just give yourself a little more time with the straps. I really haven't had any trouble with mine at all--I've only been using them since March. But I DID loosen them way up when I started out.

On my 1000 the pedals have a little dealy sticking out in the middle of the bottom of the platform which lets you turn the pedals over and slide your foot inside in one swift motion. I taught myself to use that right away, and then I taught myself that I would be pulling my foot backwards to dismount. So far, so good. ::::working spells to keep the jinx away:::

Karen