Is it true that if we only listen to it, we can improve our linguistic ability?

There are many advertisements about linguistics in public, and some of which say that you only need to listen to it and you can speak English. People might believe that this is an easy way to improve their English ability, as they don't have enough time to study. However, I'm wondering whether the companies advertising have much evidence on the effectiveness of building up the linguistic ability.

I think language is the same as sports and we need to use our brain and body. If you want to play football, you need to use your brain and move your legs and if you want to play baseball, you need to use your brain and move your hands. Language is the same, because if you want to speak English, you need to use your brain and move your mouth. If you just watch football on TV, you won't be able to play football well, even though you can build up the knowledge of the game. We are willing to improve our ability without any efforts, but unfortunately it is impossible.

I have studied English for years and actually I have realized that using the language is more important than just listening to it.