those are some good ideas. I have a clunky old airdyne exercise bike but I think the pedals can be changed, actually.
Good idea re: loosening all the way. Yes the LBS put me on a trainer to watch and adjust but altho they are real nice, they think that other types unusual of pedals are just bells and whistles.

Have been practicing on enclosed college campus roads.

I think I can deal with the Winwoods, better than crashing constantly.

I am starting to think my problem may be my shoes, which are a low level Diadora MP shoe that has a recessed rubber cleat hole. I am wondering if real road shoes might clear easier.