Diffusion tensor imaging combined with T2 mapping to quantify changes in the skeletal muscle associated with training and endurance exercise in competitive triathletes

Objectives Diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (DTI) and T2 mapping enable the detection of exercise-induced changes in the skeletal muscle microenvironment. This study prospectively quantified DTI metrics and T2 relaxation times of thigh muscles in competitive triathletes at rest and following a triathlon race in comparison with sedentary controls.