After talking and talking about it (and then talking about it more), I'm finally actually training for my first Sprint Tri in March. I'm out of excuses - healed from surgery, through with home renovation, etc. etc. Would some of you veterans mind fielding a few questions for me? I apologize in advance for the shotgun approach.

1. I put Profile Jammer GT aero bars on my road bike (Trek 2300). I'm not interested yet in a forward seat post, but I'm wondering if I'm going to gain much since the aero bars are actually higher than the regular bars. It was suggested in another forum that added wind resistance would negate any benefit? Thoughts ?( I could post a pic of my setup if that would help) At least they look faster .

2. I'm on a Eric Harr's training program (yes, I'm a total newb), and he calls for swimming each week. I don't, and won't, really have access to a pool for a while (I could pay per use when the event gets closer at a local swim center, but it's VERY out of the way) Are there any strength training exercises I could do to help my swim? I have a home gym, but not sure what would be appropriate. I need a decent workout for my swim days . I swam competively as a youngster, and I'm still comfortable with the stroke, I think - Is triathlon swimming any different?

3. How in the world do you land just behind the ball of your foot when you run? I guess I'm what you would call a heel striker, and trying to run the correct way just feels, well, weird - suggestions?

Any help on any of these would be greatly appreciated. I'm trying to train 3 to 4 days a week for at least the next 8 weeks. If the event doesn't kill me, and I like it, I may do more .