The North Shore-LIJ Health System's first-ever walking challenge, the "Walk to Paris", kicked off with 15,000 employees lacing up their sneakers to compete for a free trip to Paris.

Due to an overwhelming response, health system leaders expanded the Walk to Paris registration to allow more employees to participate - the original cut-off of participants was 10,000. The walk challenges employees to collaborate in teams of 10 to walk 7.2 million steps (the approximate length to Paris) in three months, or approximately 8,000 steps a day.

Those who complete the challenge will be entered into a raffle for a grand prize and a second prize. Already armed with a pedometer purchased by the health system, participants can also get discounted athletic footwear, thanks to a new program with Modell's sporting goods.

For the grand prize, North Shore-LIJ will send the winning team of 10 employees to Paris, paying for round-trip airfare in partnership with Delta Air Lines and a four-night hotel stay. Discount companion packages will also be available so employees can bring a guest. The 10 members of the second-place team will each receive a $400 Delta airfare voucher.

In addition to the Walk to Paris contest, the health system has also launched an interactive wellness website, VivoHealth.com, where employees can upload their step count, track their fitness goals and compare their progress to other teams. It also has profiles of teams, employees and tips on how to prevent injury, stretch and suggestions on how to get a few more steps into their daily routine.