Could anyone tell me how to level up quickly? I've been level grinding for the longest time and I feel like it's taking forever. Should it be this hard to reach level 1000? Thanks for your help :)

it depends where you train
if you train swimmer richard over and over yes the gettin you first bil xp ( lvl 5-1000 ) would be a bit harder :)

i believe there is one training pokemon to 1000-1500 for free to players with a higher account number than 190k (mine is #59994)

if you save coins for the move toxic and all 40 badges there are better training places but far harder but waaay better rewarding

He newbie don't quit on the second day.

I've been here for about a week... I have literally been fighting the swimmer guy over and over and over lol... I have like noooo coins or points or items. Are there easier ways to get items and stuff?

Yes go to random swaps, go to secret santa then click the date of today, or if a nice person just help you.

You do lucky dip, daily raffle. Also if you have a rod, you can do fishing contest.
Save up your coins in order for you to buy colored Pokemon from promo center or the TM toxic. It is very useful.

send a pokemon over and ill train to lvl 1000... think it an xmas gift/hello and welcome gift lol