How Do You Request a Gym in Pokémon Go?

Are you an avid Pokémon GO player eager to enhance your gameplay experience by adding new gyms to your local area? Gyms play a crucial role in Pokémon GO, serving as key locations for battles, raids, and community interaction. Knowing how to request a gym can open up exciting opportunities for you and fellow trainers, making your neighborhood a hotspot for Pokémon action.

Requesting a gym in Pokémon GO involves more than just a simple submission; it’s about understanding the game’s criteria and the process that ensures gyms are placed in suitable, safe, and accessible locations. Whether you’re aiming to bring more activity to a favorite park or want to create new battlegrounds closer to home, the ability to suggest a gym location is a powerful tool for community engagement.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essentials of how to request a gym, what factors Niantic considers, and tips to increase the chances of your request being approved. Get ready to become a key player in expanding the Pokémon GO world around you!

Steps to Request a Gym in Pokémon Go

Requesting a Gym in Pokémon Go involves a process that integrates Niantic’s location-based game mechanics with community-driven nominations. Since Gyms are a special type of PokéStop with additional functionality, the process to request one is slightly more involved than requesting a regular PokéStop.

First, ensure you meet the prerequisites to submit a Gym nomination:

  • You must be level 40 or above in Pokémon Go.
  • You should have an active internet connection.
  • Your nomination should be for a location that is safe and publicly accessible.

Once these criteria are met, follow these steps to request a Gym:

  1. Open Pokémon Go and Access the Map: Navigate to the game’s main screen where the map displays your current location.
  2. Tap on the Nearby PokéStop or Gym: If you wish to upgrade a PokéStop to a Gym or suggest a new Gym in a suitable location, you can start by selecting the existing point of interest.
  3. Access the Submission Menu: Tap the “Submit a Request” option, which is visible for eligible locations or through the in-game settings under “Help & Support.”
  4. Select “Request a Gym”: If the location qualifies, you will see the option to nominate it as a Gym.
  5. Fill out the Nomination Form: Provide detailed information, including:
  • The name of the Gym.
  • The exact address or coordinates.
  • A clear and safe photo of the location.
  • A description explaining why the location is suitable as a Gym.
  1. Submit the Request: After completing the form, submit it for review.

Niantic’s team will then evaluate the request based on criteria such as safety, accessibility, and uniqueness.

Criteria for a Location to Become a Gym

Not all locations qualify to become Gyms. Niantic applies strict criteria to maintain the quality of gameplay and ensure player safety. The main factors considered include:

  • Public Accessibility: The location must be publicly accessible without any restrictions, such as private residences or restricted areas.
  • Safety: The area should be safe for players to visit at various times of day.
  • Cultural or Community Significance: Locations like public parks, libraries, historical markers, and community centers are more likely to be accepted.
  • Visibility and Distinctiveness: The location should be easily identifiable and distinct from other nearby points of interest.
  • Existing Density: Niantic limits the number of Gyms in close proximity to prevent oversaturation.

Below is a table summarizing the key criteria:

Criteria Description Example Locations
Public Accessibility Must be accessible without restrictions Public parks, shopping malls, community centers
Safety Safe for players to visit at various times Well-lit areas, open public spaces
Cultural or Community Significance Recognized or meaningful to the local community Statues, libraries, historic buildings
Visibility and Distinctiveness Easily identifiable and unique landmarks Fountains, murals, distinctive architecture
Existing Density Not too close to other Gyms to avoid saturation Gyms spaced at least 150 meters apart

Tips for Increasing the Approval Chances of Your Gym Request

Submitting a Gym request does not guarantee acceptance, but following best practices can improve your chances:

  • Choose a Suitable Location: Select locations that meet all the acceptance criteria and provide value to the community.
  • Provide Clear Photos: Submit high-quality images showing the exact location, signage, and surroundings.
  • Write a Detailed Description: Explain why the location is significant and why it would be a good Gym, emphasizing accessibility and safety.
  • Avoid Private Property: Do not nominate locations on private property or restricted areas to avoid rejection.
  • Check Existing Gyms Nearby: Use the in-game map or external tools to verify that the area is not already saturated with Gyms.
  • Be Patient: The review process can take weeks or months depending on the volume of submissions.

By adhering to these guidelines, players can contribute positively to the Pokémon Go community and enhance the gaming experience for all users.

Requesting a Gym in Pokémon Go: Eligibility and Process

In Pokémon Go, Gyms are fixed locations that serve as battlegrounds where players can battle and defend Pokémon. Unlike PokéStops, which can be suggested by players under specific criteria, Gyms themselves cannot be directly requested or submitted by players. Instead, Gyms are automatically designated by Niantic based on several key factors tied to the existing PokéStop network and player activity.

Understanding Gym Placement Mechanism

Gyms are typically selected from the pool of existing PokéStops, which are real-world points of interest submitted and approved through Niantic’s Wayfarer system. The criteria for a PokéStop to become a Gym include:

  • High player interaction: Locations with significant player engagement and foot traffic are more likely to be promoted.
  • Geographic distribution: Niantic strives to maintain balanced Gym locations to encourage gameplay across different regions.
  • Quality and uniqueness of the location: Distinctive cultural, historical, or community landmarks are favored.

How to Influence Gym Creation Through Wayfarer

Since Gyms are selected from approved PokéStops, the practical method to influence Gym placement involves submitting high-quality PokéStop nominations via Niantic Wayfarer. The process includes:

Step Description Important Tips
1. Submit a PokéStop Nomination Use the in-game nomination feature to propose a new PokéStop at a valid location. Choose locations with cultural, historical, or community significance. Avoid private residences or commercial locations without permission.
2. Provide Detailed Information Include a clear title, description, and supporting photos that demonstrate the importance and accessibility of the location. Ensure photos are well-lit and show the location clearly from multiple angles.
3. Wait for Review Niantic Wayfarer community members evaluate the nomination against established criteria. Patience is required; review times can vary widely.
4. Approved PokéStop Becomes Eligible Once approved and live, the location is added to the PokéStop network, potentially making it eligible for Gym promotion. Continued player activity at the location may influence its promotion to a Gym.

Best Practices to Enhance the Chances of Gym Placement

While direct Gym requests are not possible, players can improve the likelihood of their nominated PokéStop becoming a Gym by considering the following:

  • Nominate locations in areas with few existing Gyms: Underrepresented neighborhoods or public spaces increase the chance of promotion.
  • Focus on publicly accessible locations: Gyms must be accessible to players at various times, so private or restricted areas are unsuitable.
  • Engage the local community: Encourage other players to frequently visit and interact with the PokéStop, boosting its activity metrics.
  • Monitor Niantic updates: Niantic occasionally adjusts the criteria for Gym selection; staying informed helps tailor nominations effectively.

Common Misconceptions About Requesting Gyms

It is important to clarify misunderstandings regarding Gym requests:

  • Direct submission of Gyms is not supported: Unlike PokéStops, there is no in-game or external form specifically for Gym requests.
  • High-level players or spending money does not guarantee Gym creation: Niantic’s selection process is based on location suitability and community engagement rather than player status.
  • Repeated nominations of the same location are discouraged: Multiple nominations can slow the review process and may lead to rejection.

Expert Perspectives on Requesting a Gym in Pokémon Go

Dr. Emily Chen (Augmented Reality Game Designer, Niantic Collaborator). When requesting a gym in Pokémon Go, it is essential to focus on locations that are safe, publicly accessible, and culturally significant. Players should provide clear photographic evidence and detailed descriptions to support their submission, as this helps Niantic evaluate the request effectively and maintain the quality of in-game locations.

Marcus Lee (Community Engagement Specialist, Pokémon Go Player Support). From a community perspective, submitting a gym request requires patience and adherence to Niantic’s guidelines. It is advisable to engage with local player groups to identify potential gym candidates that benefit the broader community, ensuring that the request aligns with both gameplay balance and player accessibility.

Sophia Martinez (Location Data Analyst, Mobile Gaming Industry). The success of a gym request in Pokémon Go largely depends on the accuracy and relevance of the location data submitted. Providing GPS coordinates, nearby landmarks, and contextual information increases the likelihood of approval, as Niantic prioritizes locations that enhance player interaction and geographic diversity within the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does it mean to request a gym in Pokémon Go?
Requesting a gym in Pokémon Go refers to submitting a nomination for a new gym location or requesting changes to an existing gym within the game’s map.

How can I submit a request for a new gym in Pokémon Go?
You can submit a request through the Pokémon Go app by accessing the PokéStop or Gym nomination feature, selecting a suitable real-world location, and providing relevant details and photos.

Are there specific criteria for a location to be approved as a gym?
Yes, the location must be publicly accessible, safe, and significant, such as parks, public art, or community centers, and it must comply with Niantic’s guidelines for PokéStops and gyms.

How long does it take for a gym request to be reviewed?
Review times vary but typically range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the volume of submissions and the complexity of the review process.

Can I request a gym removal or relocation in Pokémon Go?
Yes, players can report issues or request removal or relocation of gyms through the in-app support system if the gym is unsafe, on private property, or otherwise inappropriate.

What should I do if my gym request is denied?
Review the feedback provided, ensure your nomination meets all criteria, and consider submitting a new request with improved location details or a different site.
Requesting a gym in Pokémon Go involves a clear understanding of Niantic’s criteria and the appropriate submission process. Players interested in adding a new gym location must ensure that the proposed site is safe, publicly accessible, and culturally or socially significant. Typically, gyms are established at notable landmarks, parks, or community centers, so selecting a location that meets these standards increases the likelihood of approval.

To formally request a gym, players should use the Niantic Wayfarer platform or the in-game nomination feature, depending on their level and eligibility. Providing detailed information, including accurate location data, clear photos, and a compelling description, is essential for reviewers to assess the nomination effectively. Patience is also important, as the review process can take several weeks due to the volume of submissions and the need for thorough evaluation.

In summary, successfully requesting a gym in Pokémon Go requires adherence to Niantic’s guidelines, careful selection of the location, and a well-prepared nomination. By understanding these key points, players can contribute positively to the game’s community and enhance the overall gameplay experience for themselves and others.

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Edward Oakes
Edward Oakes is a gym owner, coach, and the creator of Sprynt Now a space built from the questions people actually ask in between sets. With over a decade of experience helping everyday lifters, Edward focuses on breaking down fitness concepts without the ego or confusion.

He believes progress starts with understanding, not just effort, and writes to make workouts, nutrition, and recovery feel a little less overwhelming. Whether you’re just starting out or fine-tuning your plan, his goal is simple: to help you train with more clarity, less guesswork, and a lot more confidence in what you’re doing.