I am hiking the John Muir Trial (JMT, 218 miles) in July with a friend of mine. I have never done a lengthy wilderness backpacking trip and am looking for some advice from people who are experienced on 1 week+ trips, or anyone who has done the JMT trail. We are hiking from North (Yosemite valley) to south (Mt. Whitney).

A little background, I am 24 years old, am 6'-0 and weigh about 153lbs. I ran collegiate cross country and track and field, and have run 2 marathons (2:34, 2:35) so my endurance is pretty good. I have almost all the gear I need, and am reading 'John Muir Trail' by Elizabeth Wenk. I also purchased a detailed Topographical map pack.

1) How sore do you get on a long term backpacking trips? Generally, do you get used to it after 3-4 days?
2) What are some good foods to bring? (Pre-cooked, freeze dried etc.)
3) We plan on hiking 15-18/day. How much weight (approx.) can I expect to drop?
4) What weight should my pack be
a) Pre-food/water
b) Post-food/water
5) Any general advice on backcountry packing for a newbie?

backpacker.com has excellant resorces to answers you qestions

I have several freinds that have done the trail and even the most in shape have said its exhausting. One guy was limping for several months and another lost a lot of weight when his stove broke.

iirc everyone who does it has to schedule a couple of resupplies amirite?