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Brits are ditching New Year’s resolutions for a ‘September reset’ well being kick

A new poll has found that two-thirds of Brits are planning an autumnal health kick in September, with many looking to return to their everyday routines after the summer

An image depicts a group of women engaged in a fitness class, possibly Zumba, in a well-lit indoor area. Two women are seen laughing and dancing closely, while others participate in the background. All individuals are dressed in workout attire, indicating an active, energetic environment.

Brits are using September to reset their health routine(Image: Getty Images)

A fresh nationwide poll reveals the post-summer health revival could eclipse January as the nation’s preferred time for a wellness overhaul.

Two-thirds of Brits say they’re planning an autumn health kick after losing their way following a summer of takeaways, endless plates of nibbles, dining out and increased socialising plus spontaneous drinks in pub gardens.

Indeed, more than half say they feel the need to get back to their daily routines after the summer months, while 65% say they’re looking to launch a complete September reset.

Regarding September commitments, 41% are planning to sign up to a gym, while 32% say they’ll be eliminating junk food as part of a healthier lifestyle.

A third plan to walk 10,000 steps daily, 31% will be heading to bed earlier, 26% are targeting their five / 10 a day, 25% are going to follow a gut health diet, and 24% are planning to start batch cooking, reports the Mirror.

An individual is peacefully asleep in a bed, covered with white bedding and resting their head on a pillow.

Almost a third of people want to go to bed earlier(Image: Getty Images)

It’s hardly surprising given 37% admit they overindulge more during the summer than at any other time of the year, with two thirds (60%) having noticed increasingly more people discussing doing a ‘September Reset’ in recent years.

Cooler weather, returning to normal routines, children going back to school, wanting to resume healthier habits and fewer social commitments are the main reasons Brits view September as an ideal time for a ‘health reset’. Dietitian Dr Carrie Ruxton stated: “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.”

A head shot of Dr Carrie Ruxton

Dietitian Dr Carrie Ruxton says September offers the perfect psychological boost for a health reset

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 individuals would rather reassess their habits and implement changes at various points throughout the year, instead of just concentrating on January, with 83% believing it’s easier to maintain any mid-year goals because there’s less pressure. However, 25% say they don’t want to sacrifice taste just because they’re making healthier choices.

These insights emerge as more consumers are opting for simple, achievable health swaps over restrictive diets, with plant-based options also seeing a resurgence as part of everyday eating habits.

A representative for PureOaty stated: “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.”

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They continued: “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.”