Those steps look fun. I actually really enjoy running steps.
Started lifting with a buddy about 4 weeks ago. Helps to have someone to force you to lift in those days that you don't want to. We have been doing a pretty neat progressive training program. I'll have I take a picture of the work sets. Basically you Move weight up 2.5 lbs a week on your main lifts Which are squat bench dead lift and press. In 4 weeks I've gone from being
able to do about 4 pull ups total to 3 sets of 8. I'm at 205 now and much leaner than I was at this time last year, At a similar weight. I've been eating a lot less and better food the last 2 weeks.