I’m doing a time trial in a few weeks time, but will be competing in the Merckx style category. I just recently started to practice holding as aero a position on the bike as possible while keep the hands slightly on the hoods. The only issue I’m running into is pain in my elbows after about 8 minutes (TT should take roughly 20min give or take).
Is there a secret to alleviating some of the weight being supported by the elbows or is it just a matter of adapting to it? Thanks for any input!
I’ve used clip-on aerobars for TTs. My road and gravel bikes have round 38mm bars so it’s pretty straightforward to do.
Actually, I used to do just that. My newer bike has IC so I can’t use clip ons 
. But that would besides the point in this particular case since it’s Merck’s rules.
If it is a true Merckx style TT, clip-on aero bars aren’t allowed.
I had the same issue when I first did Merckx style TTs. The best advice I can give is, yes, just practice the position. Also, work on your core so that it is providing more support with less weight on your hands and arms.
Is your stem long enough? My elbows get sore when my arms are bent so much my shoulders are past my elbows, I find I need a longer reach to be able to comfortably hold position with horizontal forearms.
just make the best of it and suffer for another 12 minutes.. there are more painful things with cycling 
Stem is good, but even if it weren’t, I wouldn’t care enough to change it lol