Finally hitting the gym - would love tips and pointers

No

50 lbs overweight, 35 years old, haven’t worked out regularly since I was 26. Help!!!

My body is so sore and worn out after just 3, 1 hour workouts! Just doing cardio/circuit/cardio each time.

How do you use that cage thing in the middle of the gym?? Should I use it instead of the machines?? Are free weights really that important or are machines a better starting place?

Spending more time on cardio and less on weight training is cool right? It’ll help me lose weight all over and tone up right?

Clueless and way past post partum over here...refusing to invest in a new wardrobe, missing my cute clothes, tired of leggings and tunics.