Just from my experience, I've used ankle weights as strength builders for my pike, straddle, and split jumps, as well as my press handstands. They've worked well and have shown great results, but I'm not entirely sure what other people use them for.
WORK! All you can do is practice practice practice! You may go through the lower levels (4-6) in maybe a month or two each (I did) with 3-7 hours a day of conditioning and practice, at home and the gym. It's alot of work, but I pinky promise it's worth it<3 best of luck!(:
So, I was a level 6 going to 7. Competitive, and progressing. Then stupid me quit gymnastics for dance, which was the worst decision of my life. Anyway, I lost all my bars, and most of my beam and vault. Floor is okay but lost some. Now I'm back, and I'm taking like a little refresher's kinda...