New York Wu Shu

Cha Bu is traditionally known as the "Steal a step" stance!  This stance is almost a cross between a "Bow Stance" and "Resting Stance".

To execute this stance, place one leg in front of the other.  The picture above shows Master Chen in a left leg Cha Bu stance so we'll go with that.  Notice first he turned the left foot outward pivoting off his heel. 

After the left foot was turned outward 90 degrees to form an "L" shape with the leg, he stood on the toes of the back leg and took a big step back to widen the stance without bending the leg.  The back leg should be completely straight.  This stance is usually done with a punch to the back during basics practice.

Tip: Make sure the thigh of the front leg is parallel to the floor and you're on the toes of the back leg only, the front foot is completely flat on the floor!