One of the nice things about Campy is that you DON'T have to shift the front in one huge throw.

I break my shifts from 34t to 48t into 2 or 3 smaller throws. It's just as fast once you get used to it, and friendly to womanly hands.

Take it slowly at first, until you figure out how it all works for you.

Pedal slowly (just twirling the pedals without pressure) somewhere flat in your middle ring. Push the lever only as far as your hand can easily and comfortably. Release the lever. (your chain will be rattling in the der cage, but don't worry) Push it again. Release again. If necessary, push again. (if it hasn't shifted all the way yet.)

The best analogy I have is that it's like using a socket wrench.