If you find yourself having too much trouble facing off your current Gym Leader, have no fear. Before challenging the Gym Leader, you can walk, skate, or bike toward the next route. The trainers you battle there will help to increase your team's overall level. Some routes will be blocked, but others are wide open and allow you to roam ahead of time, giving you the opportunity to level up a fair bit before you return and challenge that pesky Gym Leader.