[{"content":"👋 Hi, I\u0026rsquo;m Xiaoyao.\nI’m a low-voltage electrician who spends my days crimping Ethernet connectors, tracing wires, and troubleshooting networks in building server rooms. In my free time, I just love tinkering with things.\nHonestly, the internet is flooded with workout advice. If you want to learn how to exercise, a quick search gives you thousands of action videos and training guides.\nBut with methods everywhere, why do most people (including the past me) still end up working out sporadically, seeing zero results, and eventually quitting?\nBecause in the everyday life of an average person, fitness gets pushed down the priority list way too easily.\n⏱️ Time is Fair, but Energy is Drained by Unpredictability Everyone has limited energy, and time treats everyone equally—24 hours a day. Why can some people lock workouts into their schedule like clockwork, while others always feel like they \u0026ldquo;don\u0026rsquo;t have time\u0026rdquo;?\nThe real pain point isn\u0026rsquo;t laziness. It\u0026rsquo;s that traditional workouts waste too much time and are full of unpredictability.\nWhen I used to do bodyweight training without strict rest timers, I’d plan to rest for one minute, pick up my phone, start scrolling, and before I knew it, several minutes had passed. A workout that should have taken 30 minutes ended up dragging on for over an hour, wasting time and killing the training quality.\nThis subtle, unnoticed drain of time creates a sense of drag that eats away at your mental energy. Over time, fitness drops lower and lower on your priority list until it’s abandoned entirely.\nThis blog post and its companion app, Xiaoyao Workout, were built specifically to tackle this pain point.\nSince we are talking about \u0026ldquo;certainty,\u0026rdquo; let\u0026rsquo;s skip the abstract theories and look at the real results. Here is the physical transformation I achieved in just two months using my own training logic and the app I coded:\nThis isn\u0026rsquo;t superior genetics, nor is it the result of starving myself down. It is simply the natural outcome of setting doable plans, staying consistent, progressively increasing resistance, watching diet, and keeping track with real feedback.\nMost people know the principles, but why do so few manage to execute them? Because we need the \u0026ldquo;certainty\u0026rdquo; provided by software to counter human procrastination when we are exhausted.\n🎯 Trick Your Brain with \u0026ldquo;Minimum Action\u0026rdquo; Often, we struggle to start because we picture the goal as too grand, too painful, and too daunting.\nWhen I first decided to build this app, I naively thought that with AI assistance, I could just throw in a few prompts and finish it in two weeks. If I had known back then that it would take me a full year of late nights wrestling with code and bug fixes, I probably would never have started.\nYet, that \u0026ldquo;foolish start\u0026rdquo; unexpectedly forced me to leverage the power of \u0026ldquo;Minimum Action\u0026rdquo;—as long as you make that first move, momentum will push you through the rest.\nTraining works the exact same way. In Xiaoyao Workout, I don\u0026rsquo;t encourage you to start with an overly ambitious plan.\nYou can set an intense 30-minute session, or a tiny 10-minute micro-workout. Once you configure your exercises and rest intervals in the app, it calculates an exact total duration.\n(I strictly control my workout time—each session rarely exceeds 40 minutes)\nThe moment you tap \u0026ldquo;Start,\u0026rdquo; the voice assistant acts like an unemotional coach: \u0026ldquo;Starting Set 1,\u0026rdquo; \u0026ldquo;Rest for 60 seconds.\u0026rdquo; You don\u0026rsquo;t need to spend energy filling out spreadsheets after each set. Just follow the rhythm. The second the timer ends, your workout is done, and your log is automatically saved.\nOf course, we also respect physical fatigue: if you planned 6 sets but today just isn\u0026rsquo;t your day, and you hit failure at set 5, the app allows you to adjust the final results.\nWe pursue certainty, but we never cling to rigid dogmatism.\n🛠️ More Than a Tool, It’s an Authentic Log To professional developers, Xiaoyao Workout might look like just a simple tool with basic features; to fitness pros, a one-arm push-up might be just a fundamental move.\nTo me, however, they represent a different way of living.\nOver the past year, I spent a massive amount of time learning programming and building this app, causing my workouts to fall behind and my physical conditioning to slump. When I restarted, I realized that for ordinary people, the hard part isn\u0026rsquo;t finding out \u0026ldquo;what to do,\u0026rdquo; but figuring out \u0026ldquo;how to anchor workout routines firmly into the messiness of daily life.\u0026rdquo;\nXiaoyao Workout aims to solve those annoying little hurdles:\nNot knowing what to train today; Not knowing how much you\u0026rsquo;ve actually accomplished; Getting distracted by your phone during rest periods; Losing sight of your progress over time. By providing structured plans, automated timers, voice cues, and offline tracking, it turns something that used to rely on sheer \u0026ldquo;willpower\u0026rdquo; into a smooth, natural habit.\n🚀 Final Thoughts This article and the app are not meant to be a silver bullet, but rather a stepping stone to spark your own journey.\nI am sharing what worked for me, hoping it helps those who want to change but keep getting stuck on time, energy, and execution.\nBlog Posts: Share the principles, logic, and exercise breakdowns behind the training; Companion App: Helps you execute the plan to the letter (100% offline, no ads, no paywalls). 🔗 App Release Page: https://xiaoyao.fit\nIf you want to see real change in yourself, don\u0026rsquo;t worry about whether you\u0026rsquo;ll succeed right away, and don\u0026rsquo;t wait for \u0026ldquo;next Monday\u0026rdquo; or \u0026ldquo;next month.\u0026rdquo; Create a simple plan today—even if it\u0026rsquo;s just for 10 minutes.\nTransformation rarely comes from a single moment of grand resolution; it grows out of small, completed actions, time after time.\nIn the next article, I will use How to Unlock the One-Arm Push-Up as an example to dive into how to break down goals and build your own progression plan using this system.\n","date":"2026-07-25T15:00:00+08:00","image":"/p/workout-system-intro/cover.png","permalink":"/en/p/workout-system-intro/","title":"Xiaoyao Workout #1 —— Building Muscle as an Ordinary Person: It’s Not Methods You Lack, It’s Certainty"},{"content":"Before we dive into specific exercises, we need to agree on one fundamental consensus: One-size-fits-all, rigid workout templates are completely counter-human.\nIf someone can easily knock out 60 standard push-ups in a single set, prescribing them \u0026ldquo;4 sets × 15 standard push-ups\u0026rdquo; isn\u0026rsquo;t real training—it\u0026rsquo;s slacking off, a total waste of time. Conversely, if someone can\u0026rsquo;t even complete a single standard push-up, forcing them straight into one-arm push-ups will only lead to joint injuries and overwhelming frustration.\nWe don\u0026rsquo;t deal in rigid pass/fail standards here. In this article, I will share how to use precise self-testing combined with the Xiaoyao Workout app to design a highly effective training plan tailored entirely to your current physical limits. This isn\u0026rsquo;t set in stone; this post is meant to provide a practical framework and a guiding mindset.\n🔍 Step 1: Benchmark Testing (Find Your Starting Point) Pick a day when you feel fully energized, warm up thoroughly, and perform a max-rep test for standard push-ups with strict form (keep your body in a straight line, lower your chest until it almost touches the ground, push back up without momentum or sagging hips).\nRemember: quality always takes priority over quantity.\n📸 Standard Push-Up Demonstration: Keep your body in a straight line, lowering your chest until it almost touches the floor.\nOnce tested, locate your starting progression step in the table below based on your max reps. Note that these are references rather than set rules—I encourage you to choose your starting point based on your actual physical condition:\nStandard Push-Up Max Reps Your Initial Step Primary Exercise in App Recommended Rest \u0026lt; 5 reps Step 1: Regression Foundation Incline Push-Up / Knee Push-Up 60 seconds 5 – 25 reps Step 2: Standard Strength Standard Push-Up 60 seconds 26 – 40 reps Step 3: Narrow Focus Narrow (Diamond) Push-Up 60 seconds 41 – 55 reps Step 4: Asymmetric Leap Archer Push-Up (Even count) 90 seconds \u0026gt; 55 reps Step 5: Ultimate Unlock One-Arm Push-Up (Even count / switch hands) 120 seconds 📈 Step 2: The \u0026ldquo;Front-Heavy, Rear-Light\u0026rdquo; Progression Strategy Once you\u0026rsquo;ve identified your stage, how should you structure your routine?\nEven if you\u0026rsquo;ve reached Step 5, I wouldn\u0026rsquo;t recommend jumping straight into 6 full sets of one-arm push-ups—your stamina rapidly depletes set after set. Our guiding principle is: Keep total sets fixed, while dynamically scaling difficulty.\nRegardless of your stage, keep a consistent workout structure. For instance, complete 6 sets per session, aiming for 8 to 15 reps per set (choose a rep target that pushes your limit while maintaining strict form). A fixed structure builds consistency, while difficulty dynamically adapts to your body\u0026rsquo;s feedback:\n🔹 Early Progression Phase: Perform the advanced exercise for the first 2 sets, then regress to the previous stage\u0026rsquo;s base exercise for the remaining 4 sets. 🔸 Intermediate Phase: Once adapted, adjust your plan to 4 sets of the advanced exercise followed by 2 sets of the base exercise. 🔹 Full Mastery: Once you can complete all 6 sets using the advanced exercise at your target rep range, you are ready to officially move up to the next step. 💡 Principles for Regression and Progression Adjustments\nWhat should you do if you hit muscle failure before completing your target reps during a set? Regress immediately!\nSwitch to an easier variation and finish the remaining reps of that set. Never sacrifice form just to hit a number—improper compensation stalls progress and increases injury risk.\nIf you find yourself regressing during more than two sets in a single session, it means the current workout intensity exceeds your capacity. Lower the difficulty or reduce target reps in the app. Honesty without fluff is the fastest shortcut to real progress.\nConversely, progression shouldn\u0026rsquo;t happen all at once. Use a set-by-set transition approach (e.g., start by replacing just 1 set with the advanced exercise, then increase to 2 sets as you adapt). Pace yourself based on body feedback. Effective training is about smart, real-time adjustments—not mechanical execution.\n⚖️ Step 3: The \u0026ldquo;Even-Number Rule\u0026rdquo; for Advanced Exercises When you reach Steps 4 and 5 (Archer and One-Arm Push-Ups), the asymmetrical loading places different stress on each side of your body. To ensure balanced muscular development, apply the Even-Number Rule:\nFor bilateral alternating movements, keep total reps per set to an even number (e.g., 8, 10, 12, or 14 reps).\nArcher Push-Up (Alternating Reps): Perform 1 rep on the left side, then 1 rep on the right. If your target is 12 reps per set, that translates to 6 reps on each side—perfect symmetry. 📸 Archer Push-Up Demonstration: Shift your center of gravity laterally while keeping the supporting arm straight for assistance.\nOne-Arm Push-Up (Half-Set Switch): Because one-arm push-ups are extremely demanding, switching arms after every rep breaks your rhythm and mechanics. If your target is 10 reps, complete 5 consecutive reps on one arm first, then switch and perform 5 reps on the other arm. 📸 One-Arm Push-Up Demonstration: Place your working hand directly under your chest and widen your feet stance for optimal stability.\n⚙️ Step 4: Build Your Custom Routine in Xiaoyao Workout Now, open your Xiaoyao Workout app.\nInput your selected exercises, set counts, and rest intervals (Standard: 60s / Archer: 90s / One-Arm: 120s) into your custom exercise library, then combine them into your tailored workout plan.\nThe app will automatically calculate your total workout duration. As long as you stay focused without pausing unnecessarily, the estimated duration will match your actual time spent training down to the minute.\nWrap it up in 10 to 20 focused minutes. Wipe off the sweat, and dedicate the remaining 23+ hours of your day to life and what you love.\nIn the next article, we\u0026rsquo;ll dive deep into each of these five stages, breaking down technical movement details and power mechanics! Stay tuned.\n","date":"2026-07-25T15:00:00+08:00","image":"/p/workout-system-progression-plan/cover.png","permalink":"/en/p/workout-system-progression-plan/","title":"Xiaoyao Workout #2 — Progression Ladders \u0026 Custom Plans: Say Goodbye to One-Size-Fits-All Routines"},{"content":"Form precision dictates the quality of strength gains. In bodyweight training, without machine tracks to guide your motion, your core stability serves as the sole foundation.\nIn the previous article, we introduced the concept of the \u0026ldquo;Front-High, Back-Low Progression\u0026rdquo; and movement ladders. In this piece, we will deconstruct these five progression ladders pixel by pixel—explaining why each exercise is designed the way it is, how to execute it properly, and how to assess true mastery.\nIt is worth noting that these five ladders are not a rigid \u0026ldquo;mandatory leveling route\u0026rdquo; that everyone must follow at a fixed pace. Think of it as a strength roadmap helping you locate your current position and chart your next move.\nSome may stay on a specific stage longer to solidify their foundation; others with better baseline strength might advance faster. There is no one-size-fits-all answer in training. The only standard is: consistent form quality with continuous physical adaptation.\n🧱 Ladder 1: Foundational Moves (Incline Push-ups / Kneeling Push-ups) If you cannot complete 5 consecutive standard push-ups during your baseline test, do not rush into higher-difficulty progressions.\nThe goal of this phase is not chasing reps, but establishing the correct pushing mechanics. By adjusting your body angle or shortening the lever length, you reduce part of the load, allowing your shoulder joints, wrists, and core to gradually adapt to push-up movements.\n1. Biomechanics Breakdown Primarily targets the pectoralis major, anterior deltoids, and triceps, while training your body\u0026rsquo;s stabilization capability. By supporting yourself on elevated surfaces (tables, benches) or dropping your knees, your body builds a baseline pushing force.\n2. Form Micro-Details Incline Variation: Place your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width on a stable bench edge or table. Maintain a near-straight line from your ankles to the crown of your head throughout the movement. Lower your chest close to the surface, then press up smoothly. Kneeling Variation: Hands on the floor, knees touching the ground. Keep your thighs and torso firmly connected, avoiding shifting your hips backward just to make the movement easier. Universal Rule: Do not flare your elbows completely outward. Maintain a roughly 45-degree angle between your upper arms and torso to keep your shoulder joints in a safer, more stable position. 📸 Incline / Kneeling Push-up Demo: Choose a regression angle suited to your current capability to build foundational pushing strength.\n❌ Fatal Errors to Avoid\nPiking the Hips: Shifting your center of gravity backward lightens the load on your chest and shoulders. While the rep might look complete, the actual training benefit drops significantly. Torso Instability: Relying on momentum to complete reps diminishes core engagement and increases shoulder stress. 📱 Xiaoyao Workout Logging Standard 【Custom Exercise Library】 Log either \u0026ldquo;Incline Push-up\u0026rdquo; or \u0026ldquo;Kneeling Push-up\u0026rdquo; based on your setup. A rest period of 60 seconds between sets is recommended to maintain a steady cadence.\n🏋️ Ladder 2: Standard Push-ups (The Core Foundation) Once baseline strength is established, we return to the floor. The standard push-up is the single most important foundational exercise in bodyweight pushing systems.\n1. Biomechanics Breakdown The pectoralis major, anterior deltoids, and triceps work together to generate force, while your abdomen, glutes, and legs contract isometrically to keep the body completely rigid.\n2. Form Micro-Details Hand Placement: Slightly wider than shoulder-width, finding a natural, comfortable position for your shoulder joints. Movement Path: Lower your entire body in unison until your chest is near the floor, then press up smoothly. Maintain joint tension at the top without aggressively locking out your elbows. 📸 Standard Push-up Demo: Keep your body in a straight line, lowering until your chest approaches the floor.\n❌ Fatal Errors to Avoid\nSagging Lower Back: Failing to brace your core places unwanted shear stress on your lumbar spine. 📱 Xiaoyao Workout Logging Standard 【Custom Exercise Library】 Log \u0026ldquo;Standard Push-up\u0026rdquo;. Set set-rest intervals to 60 seconds to build consistent endurance.\n🎯 Ladder 3: Diamond / Close-Grip Push-ups (Focusing Power Inward) As standard push-ups become comfortable, narrowing your hand stance reduces lever arm advantage, shifting greater demand onto the triceps and inner chest for increased pushing capacity.\n1. Biomechanics Breakdown The center of effort moves closer to the body\u0026rsquo;s midline. The triceps absorb a higher load, while requiring greater core anti-rotation and stabilization.\n2. Form Micro-Details Hand Placement: Bring hands close to the midline (you can try a diamond configuration). If wrist discomfort occurs, widen the stance slightly. Elbow Path: Keep elbows tucked near your ribs during the descent rather than flaring sideways. Touch Point: Lower your chest toward your hands instead of reaching forward with your head. 📸 Close-Grip Push-up Demo: Narrow hand placement with tucked elbows to recruit triceps and inner chest.\n❌ Fatal Errors to Avoid\nFlaring Elbows: Flaring your elbows outward during close-grip variations spikes stress on shoulder and elbow joints while reducing triceps recruitment efficiency. 📱 Xiaoyao Workout Logging Standard 【Custom Exercise Library】 Log \u0026ldquo;Close-Grip Push-up\u0026rdquo;. Recommended rest interval: 60 seconds. If form degrades mid-set, apply the regression rule immediately: return to standard push-ups to finish your reps.\n🏹 Ladder 4: Archer Push-ups (Bridge to Unilateral Strength) The archer push-up is the crucial bridge leading to the one-arm push-up. Its main goal isn\u0026rsquo;t just accumulating volume, but safely conditioning your body to unilateral loading.\nOne arm bears the primary pushing load while the other assists with balance, demanding strong core anti-rotation strength.\n1. Biomechanics Breakdown The working arm handles the primary pushing load, requiring maximum effort from the chest, shoulder, and triceps. The assisting arm stays straight and slides out for balance, training scapular stability.\n2. Form Micro-Details Hand Placement: Considerably wider than standard push-up width. Spread feet slightly wider to expand your base of support. Force Vector: As you lower to one side, bend the primary arm while keeping the assisting arm straight, shifting your body weight over the working side. Rep Counting: Strictly follow the \u0026ldquo;Even Rep Rule\u0026rdquo; with alternating reps (e.g., 12 reps total = 6 left, 6 right). 📸 Archer Push-up Demo: Shift weight laterally side-to-side while keeping the assisting arm straight.\n❌ Fatal Errors to Avoid\nOver-Assisting: Bending the assisting arm turns the move into a standard wide-grip push-up, defeating the purpose of unilateral strength training. Excessive Torso Rotation: Twisting your hips forcefully just to complete a rep reduces effectiveness and risks lower back injury. 📱 Xiaoyao Workout Logging Standard 【Custom Exercise Library】 Log \u0026ldquo;Archer Push-up (Alternating Even Reps)\u0026rdquo;. Adjust set-rest intervals to 90 seconds and plan reps in even numbers (e.g., 10, 12, or 14 reps).\n⚡ Ladder 5: The Ultimate Challenge (One-Arm Push-up Series) A one-arm push-up isn\u0026rsquo;t simply \u0026ldquo;taking one hand away\u0026rdquo;; it is a comprehensive test of full-body athleticism.\nIt demands peak unilateral push strength, core anti-rotation, scapular stability, and total-body tension. Before attempting the full variation, build a baseline using regressed positions.\n5.1 Regressed Lead-in Technique: Kneeling One-Arm Push-ups Jumping straight to standard one-arm push-ups presents too heavy a load for most. Kneeling variations reduce lower-body weight bearing, letting you focus on single-arm push mechanics and core stability.\nForm Micro-Details: Knees grounded, working hand directly beneath the chest, non-working hand behind your back. Spread knees wide to form a stable tripod structure with your working hand. Body Control: Keep your torso level and stable. Avoid side-tilting or hip-twisting to cheat the movement. 📸 Kneeling One-Arm Push-up Demo: Wide knee base for support; focus on single-arm output and core control.\n5.2 Full Variation: The One-Arm Push-up Once you can reliably control kneeling one-arm push-ups, move on to the full standard single-arm variation.\nForm Micro-Details: Spread feet wide to increase base of support. Keep the off hand behind your back. Maintain a level torso as you lower until your chest approaches the floor, avoiding twisting your body to reach depth. Tempo \u0026amp; Cadence: Maintain a controlled pace of ~2 seconds per rep, avoiding bouncy momentum. Use a \u0026ldquo;Half-Set Hand Switch\u0026rdquo; structure (e.g., for a 10-rep set, complete 5 reps on the left side first, then switch to the right). 📸 Full One-Arm Push-up Demo: Working hand centered beneath chest, wide feet position for support.\n❌ Fatal Errors to Avoid\nSevere Body Tilting: Rotating hips or twisting the spine to force depth when strength fails is ineffective and places heavy shear stress on the lower back and shoulder joints. 📱 Xiaoyao Workout Logging Standard 【Custom Exercise Library】 Log \u0026ldquo;One-Arm Push-up (Full)\u0026rdquo; or \u0026ldquo;Kneeling One-Arm Push-up\u0026rdquo;. Due to high unilateral demand, set rest intervals to 120 seconds to prioritize movement quality and nervous system recovery.\n🗺️ The True Meaning of Movement Ladders: Continuous Growth Over \u0026ldquo;Beating the Game\u0026rdquo; Many view the one-arm push-up as the end point of bodyweight training. However, the real value isn\u0026rsquo;t grinding out one hard rep, but the strength, body control, and long-term training habits you cultivate while unlocking it.\nMovement ladders are just roadmaps; your body\u0026rsquo;s feedback is the real GPS. Find your current level, train consistently, make micro-adjustments, and you will step into your next milestone.\nFire up Xiaoyao Workout, log every set and feel, and transform a seemingly long journey into a visible, adaptable, and sustainable digital trail.\n","date":"2026-07-26T15:00:00+08:00","image":"/p/workout-system-five-ladders-breakdown/cover.png","permalink":"/en/p/workout-system-five-ladders-breakdown/","title":"Xiaoyao Workout #3 — Pixel-Level Movement Breakdown: From Beginners to One-Arm Push-ups"},{"content":"And with that, Part 1 of Xiaoyao Workout — \u0026ldquo;The One-Arm Push-Up Progression System\u0026rdquo; — is fully wrapped up.\nTo be completely honest, why did this progression series stop at the one-arm push-up? Because as of right now, that\u0026rsquo;s as far as I\u0026rsquo;ve personally unlocked. Higher-tier skills like handstand push-ups or one-arm pull-ups are things I haven\u0026rsquo;t fully mastered yet, so I definitely won\u0026rsquo;t copy-paste untested theories just to bloat the word count.\nBut I want to clarify one thing in advance: The one-arm push-up is not the ultimate endpoint this blog series is trying to teach you.\nThe internet is flooded with countess videos on exercise techniques, workout routines, and fitness knowledge—there is never a shortage of exercises themselves.\nWhat Xiaoyao Workout truly aims to convey isn\u0026rsquo;t a specific exercise, but a methodology for building your own personal training system.\n🧱 Exercises Are Just Entry Points; The System Is The Core From the benchmark test in Part 1, to the pixel-level breakdown of exercise ladders in Parts 2 and 3, and down to the routines, timers, and data tracking in the App—you should have realized by now that this system isn\u0026rsquo;t meant for blindly following a fixed \u0026ldquo;guru workout sheet.\u0026rdquo;\nEveryone\u0026rsquo;s physical baseline, schedule, and recovery capacity are completely different. A truly effective training system shouldn\u0026rsquo;t force everyone down the same path; instead, it should help you find your own starting line and guide your adjustments along the way:\nIf you can only manage a few knee push-ups today, that\u0026rsquo;s completely fine; A few months later, you might perform standard push-ups with ease; Down the road, maybe one day you\u0026rsquo;ll hit your very first one-arm push-up. What matters isn\u0026rsquo;t the exercise itself, but learning how to observe yourself, adjust along the way, and take control of your own progress.\n💡 Mindset Transfer: Applying This Method to Any Training Once you grasp the underlying logic, you can seamlessly apply this approach to virtually any training scenario.\nWhile bodyweight exercises progress by altering body leverage and movement difficulty, equipment-based training progresses through weight, reps, and volume. For example, when doing dumbbell lateral raises at the gym, you can construct a similar ladder:\nFoundation Sets: Establish a baseline weight to let your body adapt to proper form and muscle engagement. Challenge Sets: Introduce a slightly higher challenge weight to stimulate new adaptation. Data Tracking: Log your training metrics to determine when it\u0026rsquo;s time to officially bump up your baseline weight. In the Xiaoyao Workout App, you can freely customize exercise names, reps, weights, rest intervals, and workout durations based on your needs. For instance:\nDumbbell Lateral Raise (Challenge Set): 10 KG Dumbbell Lateral Raise (Base Set): 7.5 KG Once your body adapts to the challenge weight, you elevate your base weight and set a new challenge goal. Whether you are pushing your own body weight or cold iron plates, the essence remains identical:\n\u0026ldquo;Record the past, calibrate the present, and build a stronger version of your future self.\u0026rdquo;\n🎯 Regarding Future Updates At this point, the mindset and logic behind designing a training program presented in this series are already complete.\nAs for future updates—there might be more, or this might be it.\nHowever, if this blog series and the Xiaoyao Workout App can help you hesitate a little less and take action one more time, then it has served its purpose.\nThank you for reading this far. I hope that one day, when you look back at your training logs, you\u0026rsquo;ll realize: What truly transformed you wasn\u0026rsquo;t any single exercise, but the moment you started taking charge of your own body.\n\u0026ldquo;Don\u0026rsquo;t wait for a perfect plan to start training. Build a system first, then refine it along the way.\u0026rdquo;\n\u0026ldquo;The best time to start isn\u0026rsquo;t when everything is ready—it\u0026rsquo;s taking the first step today.\u0026rdquo;\n","date":"2026-07-27T15:00:00+08:00","image":"/p/workout-system-epilogue-and-future/cover.png","permalink":"/en/p/workout-system-epilogue-and-future/","title":"Xiaoyao Workout #4 — Beyond Bodyweight: Applying the System to Any Resistance Training"},{"content":"👋 Hi, I\u0026rsquo;m Xiaoyao.\nIn our previous articles, we covered indoor potty training and elevator impulse control. But once indoors and elevators are handled, a new challenge arises: When outdoors, dogs encounter corners, trees, or spots marked by other dogs, and instinctively want to lift a leg and mark!\nPreviously, we emphasized \u0026ldquo;minimizing opportunities to make mistakes\u0026rdquo; through environmental management. But outdoors, environments are unpredictable. Simply avoiding temptations isn\u0026rsquo;t enough—you need to actively set traps with real temptations to reshape behavior!\nToday, drawing from an experience with my dog Zero at a heavily marked neighborhood wall corner, I\u0026rsquo;ll share how to use \u0026ldquo;Setups \u0026amp; Instant Interruption\u0026rdquo; to completely eliminate improper outdoor marking.\n🎯 Core Logic: From \u0026ldquo;Passive Avoidance\u0026rdquo; to \u0026ldquo;Active Setups\u0026rdquo; In indoor training, we limit spatial freedom to prevent mistakes. But in advanced outdoor training, our strategy shifts to \u0026ldquo;actively providing opportunities to make mistakes.\u0026rdquo;\n💡 Breakdown of the Core Principle: Unavoidable Scent Triggers: Wall corners and tree trunks are natural \u0026ldquo;social bulletin boards\u0026rdquo; filled with scent markers, acting as powerful triggers to lift a leg. Anticipate Pre-marking Signals: Before lifting a leg, a dog always exhibits telltale signs: intense sniffing, pausing, and leaning body weight. This creates a golden training window. Split-Second Timing: Interrupting right as the dog begins to lift its leg (when intent forms) is 100x more effective than scolding after they finish! 🛠️ Training Setup \u0026amp; Tools Before starting outdoor setup training, make sure you have:\nStandard Leash (1.5–2 Meters): Provides immediate tension and control. Avoid retractable leashes. Clear No Cue: Establish a calm, firm verbal correction (e.g., \u0026ldquo;No\u0026rdquo; or \u0026ldquo;Ah-ah\u0026rdquo;). High-Value Treats: Used to reward refocusing after a successful interruption. 📝 Step-by-Step Practical Guide 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [Step 1: Identify Spot] Unintentional marking ──► Note high-risk spots (e.g., frequented corners) │ ▼ [Step 2: Active Setup] Deliberately linger at high-risk spot ──► Observe pre-leg-lift signals │ ▼ [Step 3: Instant Interruption] Leash snap + \u0026#34;No!\u0026#34; right at lift ──► Redirect focus ──► Move away / Reward Step 1: Log High-Risk Temptation Spots While walking Zero, he once caught me off guard and lifted his leg against a wall corner frequently used by neighborhood dogs. Instead of yelling, I calmly noted the spot—this was to become our field training ground. Step 2: Deliberately Linger \u0026amp; Set the Trap Next time passing that corner, instead of walking around it, I deliberately stopped and lingered there with Zero. While appearing nonchalant, I paid 100% attention to Zero\u0026rsquo;s body language (shifting weight, slowing sniffing, preparing to lift a leg). Step 3: Interrupt the Split Second the Leg Lifts Catch the Golden Second: The exact moment his leg began to lift, I gave a gentle leash snap to break the posture and issued a firm, calm command: \u0026ldquo;No!\u0026rdquo; Guide Away Promptly: Simultaneously guide the dog away, preventing them from completing the leg lift. Reward Alternative Behavior: Once redirected and attention returns to you, offer lavish praise or a treat, reinforcing \u0026ldquo;resisting temptation = awesome reward.\u0026rdquo; 💡 Field Notes with Zero Reflecting on Zero\u0026rsquo;s outdoor marking correction, three principles stood out:\nInterrupt Early, Don\u0026rsquo;t Wait Until Urine Flow: Waiting until urine flows means the dog has already experienced self-reward. You must interrupt at the moment of intent. Stay Calm, Don\u0026rsquo;t Vent Emotion: The \u0026ldquo;No\u0026rdquo; command should be firm and neutral. Use a quick sideways leash flick rather than a harsh yank or angry scolding. Turn \u0026ldquo;Passive Avoidance\u0026rdquo; into \u0026ldquo;Active Control\u0026rdquo;: Steering clear of corners only avoids marking temporarily. Practicing \u0026ldquo;linger, interrupt, move away\u0026rdquo; teaches your dog: No matter how strong the scent is, you cannot lift a leg without permission! ✍️ Final Thoughts Scientific dog training isn\u0026rsquo;t just about blocking behavior—it\u0026rsquo;s about combining prevention with active correction.\nIndoors, we manage environments to prevent mistakes. Outdoors, we set up real scenarios to correct mistakes. Giving your dog an opportunity to make a mistake is ultimately giving them the chance to learn proper decision-making!\n","date":"2026-08-13T10:00:00+08:00","permalink":"/en/p/dog-outdoor-marking-interruption-training-guide/","title":"Stop Outdoor Dog Marking: Using Induced Setups \u0026 Instant Interruption"},{"content":"👋 Hi, I\u0026rsquo;m Xiaoyao.\nIn the previous article, we discussed how to use a \u0026ldquo;Sit\u0026rdquo; command to fix elevator accidents. But many owners ask: \u0026ldquo;What if my puppy simply can\u0026rsquo;t hold it before even getting into the elevator?\u0026rdquo;\nThe answer is simple: The foundation must be built indoors first!\nPuppies have underdeveloped digestive systems. They almost always need to relieve themselves shortly after eating or after spending time in their crate. If indoor potty training isn\u0026rsquo;t established, accidents in hallways and elevators are inevitable.\nToday, drawing from my experience raising my dog Zero, I’m sharing a hassle-free method: The Crate Confinement \u0026amp; Progressive Expansion Potty Method.\n🎯 Core Logic: Harness Instincts \u0026amp; Minimize Bad Options The biggest mistake owners make is giving a puppy full freedom in the living room and scolding them after an accident. This doesn\u0026rsquo;t work and often teaches the puppy to hide when peeing.\n💡 Breakdown of the Core Principle: Harness Natural Instincts: Dogs inherently dislike voiding in their sleeping/resting area (a properly sized crate). Catch Digestive Timing: A puppy\u0026rsquo;s urge to eliminate reaches over 90% right after eating, waking up, or resting in a crate for an hour. Limit Options (Environment Management): When the urge is highest, make the dog potty the only accessible option, preventing accidents before they can happen. 🛠️ Prerequisites \u0026amp; Minimalist Setup Set up the following before beginning:\nProperly Sized Crate: Just large enough for the pup to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably (if it\u0026rsquo;s too big, they will eliminate in a corner). Dog Potty / Pee Pad: Keep the texture consistent so the dog develops tactile memory for the designated spot. Minimalist Environment: Keep the training area free of clutter, rugs, or soft mats to prevent accidental sniffing and marking. 📝 Step-by-Step Practical Guide 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [Step 1: Direct Access] Post-meal / Crate rest ──► Exit crate directly to dog potty ──► Success ──► High-value reward │ ▼ [Step 2: Expand Space] Gradually increase distance ──► Observe searching behavior ──► Potty on target ──► Praise \u0026amp; treats │ ▼ [Step 3: Habit Build] Free roaming area ──► Actively seeks dog potty ──► Fully potty trained Step 1: Create a Direct Route from Crate to Potty (Crucial Start) Open the crate after your puppy finishes a meal or rests for about 1 hour. Use playpens or furniture to block off other paths, ensuring the only place they can step onto is the dog potty. Since the urge to relieve themselves is peaked, once they step onto the pad and potty, immediately offer lavish praise and high-value treats! Step 2: Gradually Expand the Training Area Once your puppy masters exiting the crate and going straight to the pad, slowly increase the distance between the crate, the living area, and the potty pad. Keep the space uncluttered. The puppy will naturally rely on scent and memory to walk over to the potty pad. Reward generously every time they target the correct spot. Step 3: Gentle Interruption \u0026amp; Error Management ⚠️ What if they make a mistake? If you spot your pup circling or intensely sniffing an inappropriate spot, calmly interrupt them (e.g., Ah-ah!) and immediately guide/carry them to the potty pad. Stay Calm: Never yell or punish after the fact. Simply clean the area thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odor markers. 💡 Practical Takeaways with Zero (The \u0026ldquo;Lazy Owner\u0026rdquo; Approach) Looking back at Zero\u0026rsquo;s puppyhood, here are my top takeaways for a stress-free process:\nClutter-Free Spaces Yield Higher Success: Keeping the training zone minimal avoids destruction of items and helps puppies easily distinguish between bare floors and the tactile feel of a potty pad. Reward the Good Instead of Punishing the Bad: By timing post-meal and crate exits accurately, success rates hit 90%+. Rewarding success is infinitely easier than cleaning up mistakes. Paving the Way for Elevator Manners: Establishing a reliable home bathroom routine ensures your pup \u0026ldquo;clears inventory\u0026rdquo; at home first, preventing frantic elevator accidents later on. ✍️ Final Thoughts Potty training is fundamentally a game of environment management and timing control.\nYou don\u0026rsquo;t need harsh discipline or complex setups. Leverage the safety of a crate, time their digestive schedule, and keep the environment simple—your puppy will pick up proper bathroom manners in no time!\n","date":"2026-08-12T09:00:00+08:00","permalink":"/en/p/puppy-potty-training-crate-confinement-guide/","title":"Puppy Potty Training Made Easy: Using Crate Confinement \u0026 Timing Control"},{"content":"👋 Hi, I\u0026rsquo;m Xiaoyao.\nMany dog owners face this frustrating and embarrassing scenario: \u0026ldquo;Why does my dog always want to pee or obsessively sniff around as soon as we step into the elevator?\u0026rdquo;\nThe default reaction for most people is to pull the leash tight or yell \u0026ldquo;No!\u0026rdquo;, but this rarely works. In reality, solving this problem doesn\u0026rsquo;t require harsh punishment—it simply relies on a well-known behavioral concept called Incompatible Behavior Training, built upon a single prerequisite skill: Sit.\nToday, I’m sharing how I used this simple logic with my dog, Zero, to build rock-solid elevator manners.\n🎯 Core Logic: Overriding Bad Habits with One Action Why doesn\u0026rsquo;t yelling or pulling the leash work? Elevators are small, enclosed spaces filled with scent markers from other dogs, which easily triggers territorial marking, excitement, or anxiety.\n💡 Breakdown of the Core Principle: What is an Incompatible Behavior? Simply put, a dog cannot physically squat to pee while holding a formal \u0026ldquo;Sit\u0026rdquo; and focusing on you. By substituting the unwanted habit with a conflicting correct behavior (Sit \u0026amp; Stay), you physically and mentally prevent them from peeing. Break the Trigger Chain (No Sniffing): Sniffing is the crucial precursor to pottying (locating scent markers). Once a dog lowers its head to sniff the elevator floor, the risk of peeing spikes significantly. Therefore, preventing sniffing is just as critical as holding the Sit. 🛠️ Prerequisites \u0026amp; Preparation Before training in a real elevator, ensure you have the following ready:\nPrerequisite Skills: A solid \u0026ldquo;Sit\u0026rdquo; and \u0026ldquo;Stay\u0026rdquo; command. High-Value Rewards: Treats your dog rarely gets and finds irresistible (used to maintain focus inside the elevator). Urge Management: Let your dog relieve itself on the grass outdoors before practicing in the elevator whenever possible. 📝 Step-by-Step Practical Guide 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [Step 1] Before entering ──► Issue \u0026#34;Sit\u0026#34; command ──► Enter calmly when door opens │ ▼ [Step 2] Inside elevator ──► Maintain \u0026#34;Sit\u0026#34; + Interrupt \u0026#34;Sniffing\u0026#34; ──► Frequent Eye Contact │ ▼ [Step 3] Elevator arrives ──► Issue \u0026#34;Break / Let\u0026#39;s go\u0026#34; command ──► Exit and Reward Step 1: Resetting Posture Before Entering Don\u0026rsquo;t let your dog rush into the elevator when the doors open. Have your dog sit calmly in the waiting area first, and only step inside once they are composed.\nStep 2: Dual Control Inside the Elevator (Critical Step) Once inside, immediately place your dog in a Sit in a corner or by your side:\n🚫 Strictly Prohibit Ground Sniffing: The moment Zero tries to lower his head to sniff the floor, interrupt him with a gentle leash flick or a focus cue (like Look at me) to redirect his attention back to you. 🎯 Maintain Focus: Keep eye contact and deliver verbal praise or small treats while the elevator is moving. Teach your dog that looking at you inside the elevator is far more rewarding than smelling the floor. Step 3: Orderly Exit and Reward When the elevator reaches your floor, your dog must remain seated even after the doors open. Only release them with a clear release word (e.g., Let's go), step out together, and deliver a generous reward!\n💡 Practical Insights \u0026amp; Takeaways with Zero Here are a few key details that made a huge difference during Zero\u0026rsquo;s training:\nOwner Positioning: Stand between your dog and other passengers or the elevator doors to block visual triggers and reduce environmental stress. Interrupt Sniffing Early: Sniffing is the prelude to peeing. By interrupting the sniffing behavior early, the urge to pee drops dramatically. Early on, whenever Zero dipped his head, I immediately lured him up with a high-value treat. Fade the Rewards Gradually: Start by offering frequent treats throughout the elevator ride. Once the habit of stepping in, sitting in a corner, and looking up at you becomes automatic, slowly fade out the treats. ✍️ Final Thoughts Fixing elevator bad habits doesn\u0026rsquo;t require shouting or anger. By leveraging the scientific approach of Incompatible Behavior, you give your dog a clear, actionable alternative that naturally overrides unwanted behaviors.\nI hope this field guide on elevator etiquette helps you enjoy stress-free rides with your pup!\n","date":"2026-08-11T10:00:00+08:00","permalink":"/en/p/dog-elevator-potty-training-sit-incompatible-behavior/","title":"How to Stop Your Dog from Peeing in the Elevator: Using Incompatible Behavior Training"},{"content":"👋 Hi everyone, I\u0026rsquo;m Xiaoyao.\nFellow dog owners often ask me: \u0026ldquo;Why does my dog bolt like an arrow the exact second they hear the leash clip undo, refusing to come back no matter how loud I call?\u0026rdquo;\nIn reality, most dogs aren\u0026rsquo;t being \u0026ldquo;defiant\u0026rdquo;—we\u0026rsquo;ve unwittingly conditioned them with a flawed reflex: treating the physical action of unclipping the leash as the ultimate signal to bolt and roam free.\nAfter studying master dog training courses and tailoring the methods to fit my dog Zero\u0026rsquo;s unique personality, I synthesized a highly effective \u0026ldquo;Double-Leash Training Method.\u0026rdquo; Today, whether indoors or in high-distraction outdoor environments, Zero not only executes flawless recall but also maintains an off-leash heel. Here is the complete, practical framework behind how we achieved this!\n🎯 Core Logic: Breaking Bad Habits \u0026amp; Setting Clear Boundaries The most common mistake owners make when teaching a \u0026ldquo;Go Play / Free\u0026rdquo; release cue is letting unclipping the leash = automatic release.\n💡 Core Principles Breakdown: Dismantle the Myth: Unclipping the leash is never the release signal. Your verbal cue (e.g., \u0026ldquo;Go play!\u0026rdquo;) is the sole green light. Until that clear command is given, the dog must remain in their designated position. Impulse Control: We use two leashes to build a double safety net. Without resorting to force or harsh punishment, the dog clearly learns: \u0026ldquo;Bolting yields zero freedom and triggers an immediate reset; staying calm is the only key that unlocks high-value rewards and true freedom.\u0026rdquo; 🛠️ Preparation \u0026amp; Equipment Before getting started, make sure you have the following ready:\nTwo Leashes: One standard everyday leash (First Line of Defense) plus one safety backup or long leash (Second Line of Defense). High-Value Rewards: High-value treats or favorite toys reserved exclusively for high-stakes impulse work. Low-Distraction Environment: Start indoors where distractions are minimal before advancing to building hallways, quiet courtyards, and eventually open parks. 📝 Step-by-Step: The 4-Step Double-Leash Method 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [Baseline] Attach both leashes; issue a clear \u0026#34;Sit\u0026#34; command │ ▼ [Action] Unclip the FIRST leash │ ├─► Bolts/Breaks Sit ──► Verbal \u0026#34;No\u0026#34; + Restrain with 2nd Leash ──► Reset to Sit (No Reward) │ └─► Remains Calm ──────► Immediately reward high-value treat ──► Unclip 2nd Leash │ ▼ Issue verbal cue: \u0026#34;Go Play!\u0026#34; (Release) Step 1: Establish Initial Calmness Attach both leashes to your dog. Ask them to sit and hold a steady \u0026ldquo;Sit.\u0026rdquo; Keep your body language relaxed yet fully in control.\nStep 2: Unclip Test \u0026amp; Safety Intervention (Critical Step) Bend down and attempt to unclip the first leash:\n❌ Scenario A (Impulsive Rush): If your dog assumes they\u0026rsquo;re free and starts to bolt, immediately give a calm, firm verbal correction (e.g., No), while quickly holding firm with the second leash to prevent forward movement and reset them to a sit position. ⚠️ Note: Do NOT offer any treat or affection during this correction. Let the dog realize that rushing yields zero freedom and immediately resets the drill.\n✅ Scenario B (Calm Waiting): If the dog remains calmly seated the moment the first leash is unclipped, instantly reward them with a high-value treat and verbal praise! Step 3: Reset \u0026amp; Reinforce Reattach the first leash and walk your dog in a small circle around you to reset their focus. Repeat Step 2 until unclipping the first leash elicits complete calm and zero movement.\nStep 4: Introduce the True Release Cue (\u0026ldquo;Go Play!\u0026rdquo;) Once your dog consistently stays put after the first leash is off, unclip the second leash. If they continue holding their calm sit, deliver your clear, enthusiastic release cue—\u0026ldquo;Go Play!\u0026rdquo;—accompanied by inviting body language (such as a gesture or stepping aside) encouraging them to move freely.\n💡 Real-World Lessons with Zero \u0026amp; Key Pitfalls to Avoid Every dog has a unique personality, so adapt these steps to fit your dog\u0026rsquo;s temperaments:\nOwner Energy Dictates Success: Zero broke position and bolted many times early on. Never yell or get frustrated. Treat corrections like a neutral, mechanical rule: calmly use the second leash to guide them back into position. Your calm composure is the ultimate catalyst for your dog\u0026rsquo;s patience. Gradual Proofing: After achieving 100% success indoors, don\u0026rsquo;t jump straight to a crowded dog park. Follow a progressive path: Living Room/Hallway -\u0026gt; Enclosed Courtyard -\u0026gt; Quiet Outdoor Path -\u0026gt; Busy Park Lawn. Synergy Between Heel \u0026amp; Recall: Once clear boundaries around off-leash release are established, your dog becomes hyper-attentive to your vocal cues. Leveraging this attentiveness makes teaching an off-leash heel and bulletproof recall feel smooth and natural. ✍️ Final Thoughts Effective dog training isn\u0026rsquo;t about blind punishment or passive indulgence—it\u0026rsquo;s about building clear rules and mutual trust through proven methodology.\nMasterclasses gave me the theoretical blueprint, but real breakthroughs came from closely observing Zero\u0026rsquo;s behavior and refining the details in real time. I hope this practical double-leash guide helps anyone struggling with impulse bolting and recall challenges!\n","date":"2026-08-10T16:00:00+08:00","permalink":"/en/p/dog-impulse-control-double-leash-recall-training/","title":"Mastering Dog Impulse Control \u0026 Off-Leash Follow/Recall: A Double-Leash Practical Guide"},{"content":"👋 Hi, I\u0026rsquo;m Xiaoyao.\nRecently, I decided to polish up a trainer I wrote a few years ago for Tavern of Gods and package it into a standalone .exe to share online. But right at the very last step—generating the EXE—I got completely stuck by a bizarre error for a good two hours.\nOnce I finally fixed it, I slapped my knee and realized: \u0026ldquo;I definitely fell into this exact same trap years ago, but I never wrote it down, so here I am making the same mistake today!\u0026rdquo;\nTo save my future self (and any fellow tinkerers who bump into this issue) from wasting precious time, I\u0026rsquo;m logging the whole troubleshooting process right here.\n❌ The Error After setting up the CT table and UI form in Cheat Engine (CE), I clicked \u0026ldquo;Save as EXE\u0026rdquo;.\nHowever, as soon as I hit generate, an error box popped right up:\nChinese CE Error Message: 修改器资源更新失败. 你确认不再创建吗？ (Trainer resource update failed. Are you sure you want to stop creating?)\nEnglish CE Error Message: Failure opening the trainer for resource updates. Make sure you do not watch the creation\nThis error message is extremely misleading. My immediate instinct was: \u0026ldquo;Is my antivirus blocking the process?\u0026rdquo; or \u0026ldquo;Did CE\u0026rsquo;s resource generator module break?\u0026rdquo;\n🔍 Root Cause \u0026amp; Why It Happens After repeated tests, the underlying cause turned out to be surprisingly primitive: Cheat Engine\u0026rsquo;s built-in compiler/resource update module has poor support for non-ASCII characters (such as Chinese characters, accented letters, or special symbols) in file paths or names.\nTriggering this resource update failure only requires meeting one of the following conditions:\nThe export save path contains non-ASCII characters (e.g., D:\\Game Trainers\\Tavern.exe); The target EXE filename itself contains non-ASCII characters (e.g., D:\\Tools\\众神酒馆修改器.exe). This isn\u0026rsquo;t limited to Chinese characters either; paths with Japanese, Korean, Cyrillic, or other non-English language scripts will likely hit the exact same compilation block.\n💡 The Ultimate Fix (The Right Way) The solution is dead simple. The core golden rule is: \u0026ldquo;Generate with pure English paths first, then rename.\u0026rdquo;\nChoose a pure English directory: Set your export destination to a path consisting strictly of English letters (e.g., C:\\Temp\\ or a pure English folder on your desktop). Use a pure English filename: In CE\u0026rsquo;s export window, temporarily name your file using English characters (e.g., trainer.exe or game_mod.exe). Generate the EXE: Click generate. CE will now smoothly pass the resource compiler and successfully output the .exe file into your destination folder. Rename manually: Once generated, open Windows File Explorer and feel free to rename the exe file to whatever language or name you like (e.g., Tavern_of_Gods_Trainer_v1.1.0.exe). It will work perfectly with zero issues! ✍️ Final Thoughts As the saying goes: \u0026ldquo;The palest ink is better than the best memory, but a blog post is better than both.\u0026rdquo;\nIf I had documented this trap when I first made a trainer years ago, I could have saved myself an hour or two of needless headache today. Hope this short troubleshooting log saves you some time if you happened to land here via search!\n","date":"2026-07-28T20:00:00+08:00","permalink":"/en/p/ce-generate-exe-resource-update-error/","title":"Troubleshooting Cheat Engine Standalone Trainer Error: 'Failure opening the trainer for resource updates'"},{"content":"👋 Hi, I\u0026rsquo;m Xiaoyao.\nJust a low-voltage tech guy who crimps network cables in property server rooms during the day, and loves to mess around with code and game modding in my spare time.\nToday, I want to talk about a game I played a few years ago—Tavern of Gods—and the game trainer I built for it.\n🍺 First, About the Game Tavern of Gods, developed by China\u0026rsquo;s Element Studio, launched on Steam in 2021. It\u0026rsquo;s categorized as a Roguelite + Single-player Autochess.\nThe backstory is quite intriguing: You play as a deity hanging out in a tavern with nothing to do, so you pull out a tabletop game to play. You choose a hero, lead a squad of minions, venture into the demonic realm to fight monsters, loot equipment, build synergies, star up units, and ultimately slay the demon lord.\nThe core gameplay is straightforward:\nYou have dozens of minions to collect across various races (Humans, Barbarians, Demons, Spirits, etc.) and classes (Warriors, Mages, Assassins, Rangers\u0026hellip;), and matching them triggers squad synergies. Equipment combines in threes to upgrade quality and activate set bonuses. Every expedition rewards you based on progress, unlocking new heroes, talents, and minion traits for future runs.\nThe art style and numerical balancing are decent—as an indie title from a small domestic team, you can tell it was crafted with genuine care.\n😤 After Grinding for a While\u0026hellip; Being a Roguelite, repetitive grinding is inherently the core loop of the game. Unlocking new heroes, equipment, and talents all require accumulating expedition progress.\nAfter grinding out the highest difficulty and unlocking the final hero, the idea popped into my head to build a trainer myself.\n🎯 Core Feature: Lilani Trait Editor Lilani, the final hero in the vanilla game, comes with 5 trait slots.\nNormally, these traits require spending in-game gold in the tavern to randomly reroll—you dump money in, and what you get depends entirely on RNG.\nThe main purpose of this trainer is to eliminate that tedious grind entirely.\nWhen opened, the trainer automatically detects which traits your current Lilani has equipped and populates them in a dropdown menu. Want to switch to a different trait? Just pick it. My personal favorites are \u0026ldquo;Summoner minion active skill cooldown reduced by 50%\u0026rdquo; and \u0026ldquo;Human minions immediately restore 50 mana after casting a skill\u0026rdquo;—if you know, you know.\nIt saves massive amounts of time while letting you assemble ultimate builds that are virtually impossible to pull off in a normal run.\n💥 Real Test Results The screenshot below shows the result of running my personal \u0026ldquo;strongest lineup\u0026rdquo; with the trainer enabled against the Stage 1 BOSS.\n(Built a full spell-burst lineup with the trainer enabled; the Stage 1 BOSS was melted instantly without even a chance to fight back.)\nOf course, a normal playthrough wouldn\u0026rsquo;t look like this. But to me, using a trainer doesn\u0026rsquo;t ruin the experience at all, because tinkering with a trainer is part of the fun of gaming. Compared to the time spent playing the game, writing a trainer might actually take longer—after all, I\u0026rsquo;m not a professional programmer, just someone who loves to tinker.\nNote: The trainer uses Cheat Engine AOB (Array of Bytes) scanning to lock memory addresses. Restarting games repeatedly during a run may cause the lock to fail; simply restarting the trainer will automatically relock the addresses.\n📥 How to Get It This trainer is completely free—no paywalls, no ads, no locked features.\nIt is tailored for game version v1.1.0; compatibility with other versions is not guaranteed.\nDue to the compilation method, Windows Defender may flag it as a false positive—please download with discretion if you mind.\nDownload Link\n🎮 Final Thoughts Building trainers shares the exact same philosophy as developing Xiaoyao Workout for me—tools are meant to serve us, not to be put on a pedestal.\nWhenever I play niche games in the future and feel like tweaking something after beating them, I\u0026rsquo;ll likely craft a trainer and share it here.\n","date":"2026-07-28T16:00:00+08:00","permalink":"/en/p/tavern-of-gods-trainer/","title":"Self-Made Free Trainer for Tavern of Gods: Lilani Trait Editor \u0026 One-Turn BOSS Annihilation Test"}]