how useful/beneficial/harmful are they for off ice training?
I'm talking about spirals and jumps especially.

Spirals, because I need strength more than anything for them (flexibility, I can do an almost split position...).

Jumps, because I've heard that once you take the weights off, your jumps are higher and better.
(I'd want to do the off ice axel and double toe/double sal for now)

anyway, benefits, harms and is it worth it?

thanks, peanutskates x

P.S. Also, which types/brands/weights are best? I'm 14 if that's useful.

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You should NEVER jump with ankle weights as they shift with movement up ad down and can potentially cause injuries. They can be helpful for stationary work such as spiral holds off ice. No more than 5 lbs per foot.

Using ankle or leg weights is very common in strength classes. However, they are done in a stationary position (sitting, prone, standing, etc). They are not used for aerobics and moving exercise. I agree with the person who said do not just w them. They would be good to build free leg strength for spirals and such.

Kay

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