The emerging role of MRI for the understanding and treatment of cardiomyopathies cannot be overestimated. Establishing the diagnosis is generally possible by a single noninvasive MRI study. The follow-up examination is sensitive to even small changes. MRI data on ventricular morphology, volumes, and function are very reliable, and the use of MRI-derived end points in clinical studies may lead to a substantial decrease in subjects needed to test a given hypothesis. In addition to established approaches, MRI analysis of myocardial tissues should be the focus in future studies. If MR coronary angiography will be available in a routine clinical setting, a single MR study could provide a complete and comprehensive diagnostic procedure in patients with cardiomyopathies.