[Beak]

I've been searching the web a bit.

I don't think I've been searching in the right places though because all the little runs and practice bits I've found haven't been quite what I'm looking for. My hands get real stiff after doing a lot of chords, so I have been trying to find a really good run that gets them loosey goosey.

Maybe it's just a matter of not warming up enough before I begin clanging out the chords. *shrug* Anywho, are there any really good little excersizes and runs you lot would like to share? I know there must be a dozen of these posts, but hey, why not make my own?

[allthumbs]

it doesn't sound like you need more runs. Sounds like you need to work more on body and hand positioning so you can hold chords comfortably.
You also can't expect to practice the same chords for hours without risking injury. Some of the more difficult barre chords like the F down at the nut will not allow for endless repetition.
learn to put the minimum pressure possible to make a chord play cleanly. Your hands will get fatigued. It is natural. You are holding muscle tension to push down the strings.
Take breaks. Shake out your hands. Do finger and wrist stretches.
The lesson Capo Lane is good for warming up your fingers.
Once your hands get stiff. That is a sign to stop playing for a bit.

[Beak]

But I do love playing...

I hear ya though, allthumbs, and I'll take it to heart. Once the muscles develop though, will the tension and chance of injury lighten up, coupled with finding that sweet spot when playing a certain barre chord or open chord?

[allthumbs]

As your skills improve you will be able to play comfortably longer. You will be putting more effort into actually playing rather than fighting your own body tension. Hang in there. It gets easier over time.

[Doug]

I agree with what Allthumbs has to say. Your fingers and hands will get stronger. But you may want to get your guitar set up or checked out in any case. I was playing at a friend's place the other day with his guitar - I found it really tough - wouldn't be long before my fingers stated cramping up with that guitar.
I guess I've gotten a bit soft since I've been playing my nylon string mostly these days.