The Progressive Basic, also known as Open Basic, is a version of the Bolero Basic taken in open facing position, without turn. It is progressive because the slow counts are taken forward and back, rather than sideways. Timing, foot positions, footwork and elevation and lowering are otherwise nearly identical to that of the Closed Basic.

This figure illustrates the technique used to transition from Open (Progressive) Basic to closed position.

It begins as steps 4-6 of the Open Basic. On step 3, the man prepares by increasing tone in the arms and retracting them, in order to begin to close the space between himself and the lady. To this end, he should extend his step less than usual, or even replace weight to the foot in place, as in a Rumba rock step. The man's 4th step is also slightly smaller than the lady's, as the space between them is closed, and the closed hold is resumed. The figure is then followed by steps 2-3 of the Closed Basic.