They have forgiving flight characteristics but fairly low glide performance. Another common trainer is the Blanik L-13. This is a Czechoslovakian aircraft of all-aluminum construction. They are readily identified by their mid-wing mounting and distinctive forward sweep of the wing. Their glide performance is slightly higher than that of the 2-33 and they are capable of performing many aerobatic maneuvers.
Some operations perform training in newer technology gliders constructed largely of fiberglass.
These include the Grob 103 and ASK- 21. These are very pretty aircraft and tend to have the highest performance of gliders used in training, but they also cost more to rent. Many other gliders are used in training so don't be concerned if the operation you want to fly with uses a type not mentioned here. The FAA specifies two different sets of requirements for the private glider rating, and you only have to meet one of them. These requirements must be fulfilled before an applicant may take a private pilot flight test.