I've been getting some pain in my forearm when doing straight BB curls. Carguy suggested I go for an EZ bar. My local store has this variety:

http://www.powerhouse-fitness.co.uk/store/product_info/wf/Powerhouse_Close_Grip_Olympic_EZ_Curl_Bar.jpg

link (http://www.powerhouse-fitness.co.uk/store/product.asp?dept%5Fid=50&pf%5Fid=Powerhouse%5FClose%5FGrip%5FOlympic%5FEZ%5 FCurl%5FBar)

What's the difference between that and a regular one. Are there exercises that I can and can't do with that variety of bar?

Thanks

The difference is in the curve configuration and angles.

The one I have looks the different than that. Mine has 45 degree angles both ways meeting in the middle.

There are lots of configurations on the market for these rigs and variations thereof.

Close grip angled upright Rows would be a problem with that one.

As would a reverse angled -grip curl.

As would a close-grip angled palms-up curl.

I would go for the kind with adjacent reverse 45's if it were me.

that's the kind of bar I have - I really like the inside grip (with palms facing) for headcavers ( or tricep extensions if you prefer) - I periodically develop elbow pain if I use a straight bar for those.

....but if you already have a tricep bar it's a little redundant

I bought that bar anyway. I might go ahead and buy a standard one at a later date. I'll see if it helps my forearm later tonight.