Using rudder is the only way to land properly in a cross wind. I also had learned to fly without using the rudder. It took a while to break those bad habits. As you know, when it comes time for aerobatics, the rudder suddenly becomes much more important.

On your trainer, I would practice flying rudder-only once in a while, including landing. Also practice using a little rudder with aileron while turning. It will make your turns smoother. A long time ago, I once forgot to connect the aileron on my trainer yet landed safely.

Since you dont have any bad habits yet... Now is the time to prevent them. Good luck with flying the real thing! You're gonna love it!