Don't give up of course. Like clipless pedals, or someone switching to friction shifting (!), it just takes patience as your body makes using them intuitive. They are very useful for going into the wind, pulling against as you push a big gear, or finding a new, relaxing position. Don't grip them tightly and steer with your fists....instead steer mostly through your butt on the saddle as most experienced riders do... inclining the bike. Put most of your pressure on the elbow pads-- a better place for leverage.

You may have your elbows too close together: better to start out with your elbows farther apart than a time trialers...most bars allow for width adjustment.

Soon enough you'll be steering around road debris and even going through turns down on your bars. Do give them a chance and you can add one more new thing to your cycling repertoire.

Like Grampy, I don't recommend them for riding in close groups or on steep, speedy hills. Hard to flick your steering or get to the brakes.