Consumption of a large amount of junk food adds up to the accumulation of fat around the abdominal area. Regular crunches are often recommended, but if you're aiming for well-toned abs, then you need to go beyond the regular core exercises. This workout regime will yield results only if you maintain a healthy diet too. Effective Ab Workout Routines These abdominal exercises will help you to get well-toned abs. But before you begin, make it a point to do some warm up exercises. Captain's Chair For this, you will need a chair with handholds. Stand on the chair and hold the handholds properly to stabilize your upper body. Press your back against the backrest, contract your abs, and slowly raise your legs such that your knees come closer to the chest. When you lift your legs, your back should not be arched. At the same time, do not swing your legs up as it can cause stomach cramps. Gradually lower your legs back to the original position and repeat the set for 12 to 15 times. Exercise Ball Crunch One of the many stability ball exercises is the exercise ball crunch. This exercise is more effective as compared to the crunches on the floor. Lie on the back with your lower back firmly placed on the ball. Interlace your fingers and place your hands behind your head. Contract your abs and slowly lift your torso off the ball and curl up. Slowly lower your back and repeat the exercise. Leg Lifts Lie on your back with your hands placed next to your buttocks. Raise your legs to form a 90 degree angle with the floor. Slowly lower your legs, till they are about 6 to 8 inches above the floor and raise them up again. Do not touch your legs on the floor, till you finish about 10 to 12 repetitions of this exercise. Double Crunches Lie down on the floor, bend your knees, and place your hands and feet on the floor. Now, contract the abdominal muscles and lift your torso and legs off the floor at the same time. Slowly come back to the starting position, but do not touch your shoulders and feet to the floor. Repeat the exercise 10 to 12 times. Scissors Lie down on the floor and place your hands next to your buttocks. Lift both your legs and raise them up in the air to form a 90 degree angle with the ground. Cross your legs like a pair of scissors, bring your feet together, and then slowly lower your legs to about 6 to 8 inches off the floor. Cross your legs and raise them again. Repeat the exercise 12 to 15 times. To have well-toned abs, you may want to opt for walking exercise, running, jogging, or swimming. Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only. Always consult a physician before starting any physical fitness program in order to reduce the risk of injury.