What are gyms and how do I compete in them?

Gyms in Pokémon GO serve as key locations where players can battle their Pokémon against those of other players. They can be found in various real-world locations and are typically represented on the map by a unique icon. In addition to battling, gyms can also act as places where players can train their Pokémon and earn valuable in-game resources. To compete in a gym, a player must first identify a gym that is either neutral or controlled by another team. Upon arriving at the gym, the player can select a team to join, as Pokémon GO features three main teams: Team Mystic, Team Valor, and Team Instinct. If a gym is neutral, the player can place one of their Pokémon in it to establish control. If it is already controlled by an opponent's team, the player can challenge the gym by selecting a team of their own Pokémon to battle against the gym defenders. Each player can battle the gym up to six times in a single raid, working to reduce the gym's motivation and ultimately conquer it. Winning battles at gyms allows players to earn gym badges and rewards, contributing to their overall in-game progress. The battles are real-time, requiring strategy in selecting Pokémon, moves, and managing dodging and attacking techniques effectively. For more detailed information about gyms and their mechanics, players may want to refer to the official Pokémon GO website or the help section within the app.