Hi, you may want to consider focusing on body weight exercises until you have mastered the basics. They work, just look at those in the military if you need proof! You can do the exercises anytime and anywhere and if you don't have the time or money to meet with a trainer, it's a lot safer than trying squats you've never heard of with a barbell on your back. Here are some suggestions. You can also google body weight exercises for more.

Push-ups - if they are too easy try decline push-ups or push-ups on leg, arm, etc. Contract your abs to protect your lower back. Don't let your lower back sink.

Squats - some variations are sumo squats (or as i like to call ballet squats ), ski squats (legs are close together). Always make sure you are lowering by pushing your hips back and keep your chest up. To do deep squats try using a resistance band or suspension trainer so you can hold onto it and go deep without your knees going past your toes. If squats are too easy, try holding onto dumbbells by your side or do single leg squats (see google or sparkpeople.com for pictures)

Planks - in a push-up like position but on elbows instead of hands, hold at top until your shaking. Contract your abs to protect your lower back. Too easy? Try one legged plank or a weighted vest. Also try side planks.

Lunges - Forward lunges, reverse lunges, side lunges, etc. Don't let knees go past toes. Hold dumbbells if too easy.

bridge - works your glutes and hams. If too easy try one legged bridge, bridge with leg extension on balance ball, or put weight on your lap to make it more challenging.

These are just a few, there are a ton of options. Let google show you the way!

Hope this helps a little bit. Good luck!