Experienced Recumbent Rider

[quickbeam]

I don't clip in until I'm pedaling and up to speed. And I wouldn't be clipped in when navigating anything tricky like switchbacks.

 

[Rolling Along]

I clip in one foot before my first pedal stroke and then the other foot once I gain a little speed or just feel comfortable enough to do so - usually after a few rotations of the pedals.

 

[Frito Bandito]

I still do the butt slide, and sometimes my MTB SPD cleat connects right off the bat as soon as I start pedaling. Other times the knobbies on the bottom of my shoe provide enough grip for a a cycle or two to continue accelerating a little before I finally get connected and can apply as much power as I want.