What is the difference between 'practicar' and 'jugar'?

Question

I have noticed one would say: practico el atletismo and juego al cricket and not the other way around. Why is this?

If you and some friends are just playing around for fun you are to use the verb “Jugar” to describe your game or activity; and If you are part of a team and train or practice following an organized sport discipline then you are to use the verb “Practicar” - Jbrens, Feb 7, 2014

Answer 1

"Practicar" is to practice and "Jugar" is to play

Answer 2

With some sports (deportes) you "practice" them, and with other sports you "play" them.

"Juan juega al tenis, béisbol, baloncesto, fútbol, etc."

"Juan practica el ciclismo, la natación, la yoga, etc."

Answer 3

If you and some friends are just playing around for fun you are to use the verb “Jugar” to describe your game or activity; and If you are part of a team and train or practice following an organized sport discipline then you are to use the verb “Practicar” to describe that activity.

Answer 4

To practice and to play the game

Oh I see. Thank you - OliveFace, Mar 6, 2011

Answer 5

Estoy aficionado al fútbol pero no lo practico. I am a football fan but I do not play the game. El partido está en juego. The match is being played (at this moment in time) Leo Messi es un jugador de fútbol club Barcelona. Leo Messi is a player of Barcelona football team.