After lots of hemming and hawing, I finally bit the bullet and got some clipless pedals. Still haven't ridden outside with them. I was initially concerned about clipping out, but turns out that the real hazard is walking in the shoes. I practically rolled my ankle walking to my bike across the garage.
A friend recommended these pedals (Speedplay Light Action) for a noob. Clicking out isn't that bad, getting in is hard for me, but I figure that it will come with practice and familiarity. The bike is a Trek 1000 I think it is a 2002 model. My Bro-in-law left it in my basement so I commandeered it for my use. I think it's on the large end for my height, but it is what I have to work with.
Hopefully I can get some more miles in before my first triathlon in May.