That the game and the sport seem the same to you is a good sign, because it means that you have a good time training and leading a healthy and energetic life.
However, although playing and practicing sports have seemed the same to you since you were a child, the truth is that there are certain differences between the two activities.
If you still get confused with these two terms, don’t worry, because in OneHOWTO we explain the difference between sport and game so that you have both meanings very clearly. Also discover the similarities between juice and sport, as well as the correct definitions of each word. Take note!
What is sport
Sport is defined as any physical activity, whether carried out individually or in a group, that is carried out according to certain rules. Sport can be performed for healthy, recreational, or competitive purposes and, in the latter case, it can be practiced as an amateur or professional, with the equipment and space designated for its practice.
Sport is considered an excellent resource to improve the physical and mental health of individuals, since practicing sport frequently can help us maintain excellent physical condition, as well as improve our attention and learn the dynamics of teamwork. In this article on How sport benefits our health, you will discover how daily practice of sport can benefit you.
Over time, the sport has become institutionalized as an activity of great importance to nations. Federations, clubs, associations, and other public and private institutions support the organization of sports competitions, as well as the construction of spaces for sports practice.
Sport differs from fitness by its competitive nature. Although both can be practiced for recreational purposes, every sport involves competition, the relevance of which will be determined according to its purpose (whether it is practiced as an amateur or professional).
What is a game
A game is any activity, whether, for recreational or educational purposes, that does not require specific preparation for its execution. Although the games also have rules and imply, in many cases, a winner, the competition is a much less transcendental element.
There are traditional games, transmitted from generation to generation through popular culture (“hide and seek”, “hopscotch”, “pilla-pilla”…); educational games, created to promote children’s learning and board games, created for entertainment.
However, we cannot ignore games of chance, where the result depends on the luck of each participant (poker, cards, roulette, dominoes…); electronic games, developed as an alternative to digital entertainment (video games, emulators, online games…) and many other types of games created with different objectives.
A game is governed by rules and has a clear goal (or objective) to be reached. There are games that require some tools to play well, while others are simpler and do not require additional material. However, almost all games involve a challenge or a challenge where there can only be one winner (or a single group of winners, in the case of a team game).
In childhood, games promote interaction, fun, and education, thus facilitating children’s cognitive development and interpersonal relationships. If you and your family love this type of hobby, don’t miss this article on 10 games for family parties suitable for all audiences.
Difference between sport and game
Now that you know what a game is, what a sport is, and what the main characteristics of these activities are, let’s see the difference between sport and game. At OneHOWTO we want to tell you that there are several differences, although the main one is usually the preparation and training necessary for its development.
On the other hand, in sport, you need constant and specific training to be able to compete, either as an amateur or professional. A game, on the other hand, only requires basic cognitive and sensory abilities to play it.
The main differences between sports and games are :
- The sport involves more serious competition than the game.
- The sport is usually institutionalized in a legal way, while the game is not.
- A game is seen as a form of fun, recreation, or entertainment. Sport is a professional activity.
- Although both involve specific rules, in sport these rules are much less flexible, especially if it is played at a professional level.
- The sport requires specific spaces for its dispute, while the game does not.
- In the game, the effort developed tends to be less and depends more on the attitude than on the preparation. In sport, on the other hand, aptitude, preparation, and intensity determine the level of the competitor.
Similarities between game and sport
However, we cannot fail to mention the similarities between games and sports, as there are many. It is for this reason that both terms are often confused since they share very precise characteristics. In fact, when referring to the dispute of a sports discipline, individual or team, we usually say “the game begins”, to refer to the sporting event.
This is just an expression, however, there are some similarities between sports and games that are worth bearing in mind :
- Both have specific rules, have a specific goal, and require the intention to win on the part of the players.
- Both recreational play and sport improve the physical and mental health of the human being.
- The game and the sport represent a recreational activity, which promotes interpersonal relationships, teamwork, and healthy rivalry in children.
If you want to read more articles similar on the difference between sports and games, we recommend you visit our Training category.
