If I have tendinitis, is it ok if I lift weights at the gym?

I dont want to become like Shwartzeneger, but I want to improve strength in my arms. I developed tendinitis 5 years ago and I was told that its probably because my arm and shouder muscles are weak (which is true by the way). So I should increase the strength but I'm afraid that lifting weights will worsen my tendinitis.

I have had tendonitis for years also. The doctor gave me stretching exercises to do to improve and then I could move on to more weight. Place your hand flat on the wall straight out from your shoulder. Then slowly turn your body forward and away from your hand. When you feel the burn stop and hold for 30 sec. Also sitting in the car, put your hand on the front console and keeping your arm straight push and stretch.
also turn your hand down and do the same thing. There are many ways to stretch those muscles, using bands and light weights. See a hands on Physical Therapist.

Where is your tendinitis? If it's in your ankle, then sitting and lifting weights with your arms certainly won't bother it. Really, though, if you have a chronic condition like tendinitis you should be seeing a doctor and physical therapist. They can give you the best advice about how to rest, how to heal, and things you can do to build strength without reinjuring yourself.

If you've got tendinitis in your wrists or elbows you can do weight work that involves the lower body until you can get in to see the doctor. It should help with your core strength, which will help you no matter where the tendinitis is located.

See the Mayo Clinic website below for information about the treatment and prevention of tendinitis.

I'm a fitness trainer and former dancer.