After a long, hot summer of overindulgence, September is becoming the new January as Brits decide to make changes now rather than wait until winter15:12, 02 Sep 2026A new nationwide poll suggests the post-summer health kick could overtake January as the nation's favourite time for a wellness reboot.‌Two-thirds of Brits say they are planning an autumnal health kick after losing focus following a summer of takeaways, copious plates of picky bits, eating out and socialising more and impromptu drinks in a beer garden.‌In fact, more than half say they feel they need to return to their everyday routines after the summer, while 65% say they are looking to embark on a full September reset.‌In terms of September pledges, 41% are planning to join a gym, while 32% say they will be cutting out junk food as part of a healthier lifestyle.A third intend to walk 10,000 steps a day, 31% will be going to bed earlier, 26% are aiming to eat their five / 10 a day, 25% are going to follow a gut health diet, and 24% are planning to start batch cooking.‌It’s no surprise with 37% admitting they indulge more during the summer than at any other time of the year, two thirds (60%) have noticed more and more people talking about doing a ‘September Reset’ in recent years.Cooler weather, getting back to a normal routine, the children being back at school, wanting to get back to healthier habits and fewer social engagements are the mains reasons Brits view September as a good time for a ‘health reset’.‌Dr Carrie Ruxton, dietitian, said: "September offers the perfect psychological reset. Unlike January, the weather is often still mild, routines naturally begin to settle after the summer holidays and people tend to feel ready to regain a sense of balance."You don't need an extreme detox or restrictive diet – simply returning to regular mealtimes, breakfast being key to kick off your day, eating more fibre, reducing alcohol and focusing on nutrient-rich foods can make a noticeable difference to energy levels, digestion and overall wellbeing before winter arrives."She added: "Many people spend summer enjoying themselves – and rightly so. The key is not to undo those memories with guilt, but to use September and October as an opportunity to establish sustainable habits that will carry you into the colder months feeling healthier and more resilient for cold and flu season."‌Most people would prefer to review their habits and make changes at different points throughout the year, rather than just focusing on January, with 83% believing it is easier to keep any mid-year goals because there is less pressure. However, 25% say they don’t want to compromise on taste just because they are making healthier choices.The findings come as more consumers embrace simple, achievable health swaps rather than restrictive diets, with plant-based choices also back in growth as part of everyday eating habits.‌A spokesperson for PureOaty said: "For years we've thought of January as the month for fresh starts, but our research shows September is becoming the real reset moment for modern Britain."After a summer of socialising, travel and treating ourselves, people are looking for realistic ways to feel healthier without giving up the foods they love.""They added: “For many, that means making small, simple swaps that fit naturally into everyday routines. Oat drinks can be an easy place to start, whether poured over breakfast, blended into a smoothie or added to coffee. “Article continues belowTOP 20 SEPTEMBER RESOLUTIONS FOR BRITS:Cut out junk foodGo to bed earlierWalk 10,000 steps a dayEat 5/10 a dayCook more from scratchStart batch cookingStart a gut health dietJoin the gymWake up earlierCut back on sugary drinksStart logging your mealSpend less time doom scrollingGive up takeawaysEat more colours of the rainbowCut out carbsDo a Sober SeptemberLift heavy weightsLearn to meditateChoose foods and drinks with simpler ingredientsStart a gratitude journal