Provided are methods and systems for rapid MRI imaging-scanning that provides 2D or 3D coverage, high precision, and high-temporal efficiency, without exceeding SAR limits. In one embodiment, a pulse sequence process is performed that includes a T.sub.1.rho. preparation period, followed by a very rapid image acquisition process, which acquires multiple lines of k-space data. The combination of T.sub.1.rho. preparation and acquisition of multiple lines of k-space, allows scan times to be shortened by as much as 3- or 4-fold or more, over conventional MRI scanning methods.