As far as being a newbie - I've lifted on and off casually since I was 16 or so. I'm 34 now. I would work out for a few months, hit a plateau, and give up for a few months. Throughout that time I usually weighed about 185 (with a higher % bodyfat than now).
My workout back then consisted of mostly benches, with occasional squats or chins thrown in.
This is the biggest and strongest I've ever been, especially my legs and back.