Regular travel can improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress levels, and boost productivity, according to a report published on March 30 in Medical Xpress.

“Travel is more than just memories and enjoyment. Our research shows that when we travel, our relationships with others strengthen, we become more educated, and our health improves,” said James Petrick, professor and associate head of the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Texas A&M University.

As part of the study, researchers observed 20 students during a cruise trip. Participants wore smartwatches equipped with health-monitoring apps that tracked heart rate, movement, and physical activity. In addition, the students kept hourly diaries recording their activities. Data from accelerometers and gyroscopes allowed researchers to correlate movement patterns with cardiovascular indicators.

The study was based on the cognitive activation theory of stress, which suggests that the body’s response to stress depends on a person’s ability to cope with challenges. According to Petrick, the effect of travel on the heart is similar to interval training in athletes: new experiences stimulate cardiac activity, while periods of rest allow recovery. This alternation of stress and relaxation strengthens the heart muscle.

The findings also showed that the duration of a vacation directly affects its health benefits: a week-long trip leads to a more sustained reduction in stress compared to a short three-day break. However, Petrick noted that the long-term effects of extended time away from one’s usual environment have not yet been fully studied.

It is suggested that after several weeks, a person may begin to feel stress due to being away from home and the accumulation of work-related responsibilities. The researcher expressed hope that future studies will help determine the optimal length of a vacation.